We’re counting down the days until the Panthers kick off the 2024 season.
We’re officially 11 days away from the Carolina Panthers kicking off the 2024 NFL season against the New Orleans Saints. That’s less than two weeks away! It will be their second consecutive road opener. Now it’s time for our annual roster countdown to highlight the players on the Panthers’ roster. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the player wearing the the No. 11 jersey— wide receiver/kick returner Ihmir Smith-Marsette.
New kick return rules for the 2024 season are getting all of the buzz right now. Kickoffs are supposed to be simultaneously more dynamic and safer. That is intended to add excitement back into routine special teams plays and, consequently, to put a premium on good returners. Smith-Marsette is a certainly a good returner and, along with Raheem Blackshear, is set to give the Panthers an edge over the rest of the NFC South.
Time will tell if his return ability is worth an entire roster spot on its own or if the speedy wide receiver—who turns 25 tomorrow—can develop into a weapon at his position. He only has 20 catches in three season career thus far, but the Panthers have room for a receiver to break out this season.
How about it Panthers fans, do you think Smith-Marsette can develop into a weapon outside of the return game? Scroll on down to the comments and share your thoughts with us!