Carolina bolsters its roster with a seasoned receiver‑returner on the practice squad.
The club confirmed Tuesday afternoon that Ihmir Smith-Marsette joined the squad, after a brief stint with Arizona’s practice unit earlier this month.
He previously suited up for the Panthers in 2023, then spent two years on the Giants’ practice roster, serving as their primary return man in 2024. Earlier chapters saw him with the Chiefs, Bears and Vikings. For my money, his return skill gives Carolina a hidden edge.
During his first Panthers run he returned a punt for a touchdown, and he once scored on a kickoff return for New York. He averages 8.3 yards per punt return and 30.1 yards per kickoff, with 14 receptions for 182 yards overall. Will his playmaking spark a roster spot later this season?