The Panthers are reportedly close to terms with former Tampa Bay wide receiver and special-teams ace Russell Shepard. The Panthers are one of four remaining teams Shepard is choosing from including the Buccaneers, who don't want to lose him.

Shepard, 26, was a special-teams captain and was thrust into the receiver role last season after injuries to the unit, particularly Vincent Jackson. He caught 23 passes for 341 yards and two touchdowns, good for 14.8 yards per catch. He ran a 4.46 at his LSU pro day in 2013.

Jenna Laine, ESPN staff writer for the Bucs, stated "Shepard helped the Bucs special teams unit allow just 5.6 yards per punt return last season, the fourth-lowest mark in the league in 2016 and fourth best in team history." Another spot Carolina could use help in. 

Landing Shepard on the same day loss of Ted Ginn would be a solid turn around for Carolina. He's not a major splash, but could improve in more than one area nonetheless.

Written By Tripp Morgan

Follow @TrippMorgan6 and Cat_Chronicles for the latest news and updates surrounding the Carolina Panthers

Article photo-Jesse Fraetis