The Carolina Panthers are certainly putting their top spot on the waiver wire to good use today. But unfortunately, the moves will come at a price.
According to Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer, the Panthers are waiving wide receiver Jalen Coker. The undrafted rookie, a fan favorite over the spring and summer, was named to the team’s initial 53-man roster on Tuesday.
Coker signed with Carolina following the 2024 NFL draft. The Holy Cross standout apparently stood out quite early to head coach Dave Canales, who offered a rather extensive evaluation of the 6-foot-3, 213-pound pass catcher back in May.
“Size, instincts, top-of-route ability to separate,” Canales said when asked about Coker. “He’s really crafty in zones. He knows how to find the open spaces. Has a little cool run-after-catch, too. He can break some tackles because of the size that he brings. Attacks the ball at the high point. I mean, the guy really does have a cool skill set that he brings to us. So I’m excited to see him kinda get introduced as we start to develop out football, especially in Phase Three OTAs. Let’s see what he looks like against NFL talent. But I’m really excited about him.”
The 22-year-old recorded five receptions for 71 yards and a touchdown during preseason play.
If Coker clears waivers on Thursday, Canales and the Panthers could bring him back as a member of their practice squad.
