Hunter Renfrow is back in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers, signing a one-year deal in April after missing the 2024 season due to health challenges from ulcerative colitis. The Clemson standout is healthy again and lining up to contribute as a veteran presence for a young Panthers receiving corps.
Renfrow’s comeback has been watched closely as he returns to action after a year away. He recently dealt with a hamstring issue in the Panthers’ preseason, but he’s back on the practice field and looks ready to pick up where he left off. The 29-year-old brings more than just his experience; he retains the savvy route-running and the ability to create separation that defined his Raiders tenure.
Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik spoke highly of Renfrow’s skill set, emphasizing his knack for getting open and his understanding of leverage. Idzik highlighted Renfrow’s lateral quickness and his ability to surge with powerful first steps, which help him appear to be moving full tilt vertically even when he isn’t running true go routes. He noted that Renfrow can win against most defenders if given a few seconds, thanks to the way he sells leverage and uses precise route timing.
Renfrow’s NFL journey includes 269 receptions for 2,884 yards and 17 touchdowns over five seasons with the Raiders from 2019 through 2023. As he makes this return, he’s again pairing with a young quarterback in Bryce Young, a connection that has already produced notable moments in practice, including a recent out-and-up sequence that showcased Renfrow’s continued ability to interplay with Young on timing and space.
What this means for Carolina: Renfrow’s veteran savvy and reliable hands could be a stabilizing factor for a young Panthers offense as they continue to build chemistry around Young. His resilience through health challenges and a year away from the game also adds an element of leadership and toughness to the locker room. If he can stay healthy, Renfrow could contribute as a trusted target in the slot, provide critical route-running nuance, and help Young grow in a developing offense.
Summary: Renfrow’s comeback story—overcoming ulcerative colitis, returning to practice, and earning praise for his precise route-running and leverage play—adds an intriguing dimension to the Panthers’ offense as they aim to blend experience with explosiveness this season.