Panthers Looking To Sign Russell Shepard

The Panthers are “working on signing” wideout Russell Shepard, reports Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (via Twitter). It’s realistic the two sides will reach an agreement, a league source tells Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer (Twitter link).

The former special teamer emerged as an offensive threat for the Buccaneers last season. After having collected seven receptions through his first four seasons in the league, Shepard hauled in 23 catches for 341 yards and two touchdowns last year. In 57 career games, the 26-year-old has added another 32 tackles. Shepard was the Buccaneers special teams captain the past two seasons.

The Panthers are presumably pursuing Shepard for his special teams prowess, but he could also slide into the team’s wide receiver depth chart. The veteran could compete with Damiere Byrd to play behind Kelvin Benjamin, Devin Funchess, and Brenton Bersin.

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