5 shocking final cuts the Carolina Panthers could make in 2022

Andre Roberts – Carolina Panthers WR/KR

Signing All-Pro kick returner Andre Roberts was seen as a good bit of business by the Carolina Panthers. The team swooped quickly once the 2022 NFL Draft concluded, with the veteran offering a substantial upgrade on Alex Erickson, who handled the responsibility last time around.

Roberts’ credentials are there for all to see. Although he is firmly at the backend of his productive career, the Citadel product’s efforts last season indicate there is still something left in the tank that could be of use.

However, it’s not that simple ahead of final cuts.

The Panthers have some outstanding wide receivers that might be preferred. And the rising emergence of Shi Smith as a pass-catcher and kick returner is something else that could have ramifications on Roberts.

If the Panthers decide that Smith can become a more explosive force on special teams while also potentially generating a significant amount of targets, then Roberts will be surplus to requirements.

Cutting the player before he’s played a competitive down would cost the Panthers $900,000 according to Over the Cap. But this is unlikely to alter their train of thought with more than $21 million at their disposal.

Roberts not being on the roster in Week 1 would be a surprise. However, the time to unleash Smith has arrived after a sensational summer.