After a year away from the gridiron, veteran wide receiver Hunter Renfrow is back in the NFL, ready to make an impact with the Carolina Panthers. The former Las Vegas Raiders standout has signed a one-year deal with the team, marking a homecoming for the South Carolina native. This article dives into Hunter Renfrow’s journey, his career highlights, and how he fits into the Panthers’ plans to support their young quarterback, Bryce Young.

Who Is Hunter Renfrow?

Hunter Renfrow is a 29-year-old wide receiver known for his crafty route-running and reliable hands. A product of Clemson University, Renfrow rose from a walk-on to a two-time national champion, catching the game-winning touchdown in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship against Alabama. His college success translated to the NFL, where he became a dependable slot receiver for the Raiders.

Renfrow’s story is one of resilience. Despite being a fifth-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, he quickly proved his worth with his football IQ and ability to get open. After a year away from the game, Hunter Renfrow is poised to bring his veteran presence to a young Panthers roster.

A Look at Hunter Renfrow’s NFL Career

Early Success with the Las Vegas Raiders

Drafted by the Raiders in 2019, Hunter Renfrow wasted no time making an impact. Over his first three seasons, he established himself as a reliable target, particularly in the slot. His breakout year came in 2021, when he earned a Pro Bowl nod after a stellar performance:

• 103 receptions: Third-most in Raiders franchise history for a single season.
• 1,038 yards: His first 1,000-yard campaign.
• 9 touchdowns: Showcasing his ability to find the end zone.

Renfrow’s 2021 season highlighted his ability to be a security blanket for quarterbacks, often getting open on crucial third downs. His chemistry with then-Raiders quarterback Derek Carr was a key factor in his success.

Challenges and Release

Despite his Pro Bowl season, Renfrow’s role diminished in 2022 under new head coach Josh McDaniels. The Raiders’ offensive scheme shifted, and Renfrow saw fewer targets and snaps. His production dropped significantly:

Injuries and a crowded receiver room further limited his opportunities. After the 2023 season, the Raiders released Renfrow, who was set to count $13.7 million against the salary cap. He sat out the entire 2024 season, sparking rumors of retirement.

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The Year Away: What Did Hunter Renfrow Do?

During his hiatus, Renfrow didn’t stay idle. He worked for ESS Industrial, a South Carolina-based recycling company owned by his cousin, Kyle Renfrow. As a “recycling ambassador,” he engaged in community initiatives, leading some to believe he had retired from football. However, Renfrow clarified his intentions in March 2025, stating on social media that he had been training for a comeback.

Renfrow also visited both the Raiders and Panthers during the offseason, signaling his desire to return to the NFL. His workouts impressed Carolina, leading to his signing on April 27, 2025, just after the 2025 NFL Draft.

Why the Carolina Panthers Signed Hunter Renfrow

The Panthers are in a rebuilding phase, with a focus on supporting their young quarterback, Bryce Young. Selected first overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Young has faced challenges in his first two seasons, partly due to a lack of consistent weapons. Carolina’s front office made it a priority to bolster their offense in 2025, and Hunter Renfrow fits perfectly into their plans.

Supporting Bryce Young

Young, now entering his third season, needs reliable targets to build confidence and chemistry. Renfrow’s experience as a slot receiver makes him an ideal fit. His ability to find soft spots in zone coverage and convert third downs could provide Young with a safety valve in high-pressure situations.

A Revamped Receiving Corps

The Panthers have overhauled their wide receiver room to give Young more options. Alongside Renfrow, the team features:

• Adam Thielen: A veteran leader and consistent pass-catcher.
• Xavier Legette: A 2024 first-round pick with big-play potential.
• Tetairoa McMillan: The No. 8 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, a dynamic playmaker from Arizona.
• David Moore, Jalen Coker, and others: Depth pieces who add versatility.

Renfrow’s veteran presence will complement Thielen’s leadership, guiding younger receivers like McMillan and Legette. His savvy route-running could also open up opportunities for others by drawing defensive attention.

A Hometown Connection

As a Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, native, Renfrow’s signing is a homecoming. Playing just two hours from Clemson, where he starred in college, adds a personal motivation for Renfrow to succeed. The Panthers, who have never drafted a Clemson player, now have a Tiger in their ranks, even if through free agency.

How Hunter Renfrow Fits into the Panthers’ Offense

Role in the Slot

Renfrow is expected to primarily play in the slot, where he’s most effective. His quickness and precise route-running allow him to exploit mismatches against linebackers and slot corners. In Carolina’s offense, under offensive coordinator Brad Idzik, Renfrow could see significant snaps in:

• Third-down situations: His knack for getting open makes him a go-to target.
• Short-to-intermediate routes: Perfect for Young’s quick-release style.
• Red-zone plays: His ability to find space in tight coverage could boost Carolina’s scoring.

Comparison to Current Panthers Receivers

Here’s how Renfrow stacks up against Carolina’s top receivers:

Renfrow’s skill set complements Thielen’s versatility and Legette’s speed, creating a balanced receiving corps.

Potential Challenges

While Renfrow brings experience, there are hurdles to overcome:

• Crowded receiver room: With McMillan, Legette, and others vying for targets, Renfrow must earn his snaps.
• Age and rust: At 29, after a year away, he’ll need to prove he can regain his 2021 form.
• Young’s development: If Young struggles, it could limit Renfrow’s production.

Despite these challenges, Renfrow’s football IQ and work ethic make him a low-risk, high-reward signing for Carolina.

What Fans Can Expect from Hunter Renfrow in 2025

On-Field Impact

Fans should expect Renfrow to be a reliable chain-mover, particularly in clutch moments. His stats may not match his 2021 Pro Bowl season, but he could deliver:

• 40-60 receptions: Depending on his role and Young’s performance.
• 400-600 yards: Reflecting his slot-receiver usage.
• 3-5 touchdowns: Capitalizing on red-zone opportunities.

His impact will be felt most in games where Young needs a dependable target to keep drives alive.

Off-Field Leadership

Renfrow’s experience as a two-time national champion and Pro Bowler will benefit Carolina’s young roster. He’s likely to mentor rookies like McMillan and second-year players like Legette, helping them navigate the NFL’s challenges. His work with ESS Industrial also shows his commitment to the community, which could endear him to Panthers fans.

The Bigger Picture: Carolina’s 2025 Outlook

The Panthers’ signing of Hunter Renfrow is part of a broader strategy to rebuild around Bryce Young. In addition to their draft picks (McMillan, Notre Dame tight end Mitchell Evans, and Colorado receiver Jimmy Horn Jr.), Carolina has made other moves to strengthen their roster:

• Defensive additions: Second-round edge rushers to bolster the pass rush.
• Offensive line stability: Retaining key starters to protect Young.
• Coaching continuity: Head coach Dave Canales’ second year brings familiarity.

With these pieces in place, the Panthers aim to improve on their 2-15 record from 2024 and compete in the NFC South. Renfrow’s role, while not flashy, could be pivotal in helping Young take a step forward.

FAQs About Hunter Renfrow’s Signing with the Panthers

1. Why did Hunter Renfrow sit out the 2024 season?
   Renfrow was released by the Raiders in March 2024 and went unsigned for the season. He spent the year working for a family-owned recycling company in South Carolina while training for a potential NFL comeback.
2. What is Hunter Renfrow’s role with the Panthers?
   Renfrow is expected to play as a slot receiver, focusing on short-to-intermediate routes and third-down conversions. He’ll provide a reliable target for Bryce Young and add veteran leadership.
3. How does Renfrow’s signing help Bryce Young?
   Renfrow’s experience and route-running ability give Young a dependable option, especially in high-pressure situations. His presence could help Young build confidence and improve his decision-making.
4. Can Hunter Renfrow return to his Pro Bowl form?
   While it’s unlikely he’ll match his 2021 numbers (103 receptions, 1,038 yards), Renfrow’s football IQ and work ethic suggest he can still be a productive contributor in a complementary role.
5. Is this a long-term signing for the Panthers?
   Renfrow signed a one-year deal, making this a prove-it contract. If he performs well, Carolina could extend him, but his role in 2025 will likely focus on immediate impact and mentorship.

Conclusion

Hunter Renfrow’s signing with the Carolina Panthers marks an exciting new chapter for the veteran wide receiver. A year after the NFL, the South Carolina native is back to prove he still has plenty to offer. His experience, route-running savvy, and leadership make him a valuable addition to a Panthers team focused on developing Bryce Young and rebuilding their offense.

As Renfrow takes the field in 2025, fans will be eager to see if he can recapture the magic of his Pro Bowl season while helping Carolina take a step forward. Whether he’s making clutch catches or mentoring young teammates, Hunter Renfrow’s impact will be felt both on and off the field. For Panthers fans, this hometown hero’s return is a reason to be optimistic about the season ahead.