Panthers assign Xavier Legette to return duties for season opener

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Xavier Legette is expected to take on a new role as a secondary returner for kickoffs and punts. The team listed the former first-round pick as the number two returner on the unofficial depth chart for the upcoming Week 1 game against the Chicago Bears. Special teams coordinator Tracy Smith cited Legette’s previous experience and physical strength as reasons for the assignment, noting that the league's current dynamic kickoff rules often favor using two players in the return unit. While Jimmy Horn Jr. remains the primary option for both punts and kickoffs, the team intends to use Legette to provide additional support and blocking capability. Legette previously handled return duties during his time at South Carolina and during his rookie season with the Panthers. The team has not issued an official confirmation regarding the active lineup for game day.

• 6:15 PMYahoo Sports — WR Xavier Legette may get a new chance in a different role for Panthers