Panthers To Let Brown And Bersin Walk, Tender Norwell

Philly Brown

A big offseason for the Carolina Panthers continues to grow. 

Per Joe Person of the Charlotte Observer, the Panthers intend to let wide receivers Philly Brown and Brenton Bersin test free agency and tender guard Andrew Norwell by Thursday's deadline.

While not necessarily a shocking move, Dave Gettleman, and Ron Rivera already have a few holes they're looking to fill, and this move could have added another one.  

Brenton Bersin

Philly Brown had a career down year (276 yards) with Kelvin Benjamin coming back after being the leading receiver in Super Bowl 50 with 80 yards on four catches.

Bersin was a native and undrafted out of Wofford College, where Carolina holds their training camp each year and also where Panthers owner Jerry Richardson played as wide receiver in college. Bersin was virtually non-existent in 2016 with only two catches for 17 yards. 

This could also very well leave an opening for former South Carolina Gamecock receiver Damiere Byrd, who made a strong splash in training camp last season. Many wanted him to get more opportunities during the 2016 regular season. His speed and return ability could certainly help the Panthers offense.

It will be interesting to see how the Panthers play this going into free agency with receivers like DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garçon, Victor Cruz, and more available. Cruz has already visited the Panthers and this may be a telling sign as to how they feel about that visit moving forward. There is also good talent coming out in this year's draft. Carolina could even bring one of the two receivers back on a team friendly deal if they don't sign elsewhere. 

Written By Tripp Morgan  
Follow @TrippMorgan6 and Cat_Chronicles for Panthers news and updates from the fan perspective.