His debut season was unimpressive. The Carolina Panthers expected big things from the physically imposing wide receiver after trading up to get him at No. 32 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. He failed to deliver.
Legette was far from a failure. The former South Carolina standout showed promise as a route runner, gaining separation and shown improvement in his ability to beat press coverage. He’s a diligent worker who has shown incredible perseverance in the face of adversity. That’s a great foundation from which to build.
It was not ideal. Legette’s alleged yards after the catch proficiency did not pan out right away.
He struggled with drops and lacked the necessary on-field confidence. He is not a lost cause, but he will need to put in a lot of effort this offseason.
Some fans are disappointed that Carolina had Ladd McConkey available for the taking. One NFL observer agreed, saying the Panthers chose the wrong wide receiver.
NFL analyst blasts Carolina Panthers’ decision to draft Xavier Legette
Gary Davenport of The Bleacher Report praised the Panthers for moving up to offer Bryce Young another weapon in his 2024 re-draft. He thought Keon Coleman should have been the choice, but the Buffalo Bills pass-catcher didn’t exactly light up the world.
“It’s hardly shocking that the Panthers traded back into the first round last year to acquire a wide receiver. Veteran Adam Thielen isn’t getting any younger, and quarterback Bryce Young needs a reliable wideout. A long-term number one wideout. The Panthers simply picked the wrong player. Keon Coleman’s debut season in Buffalo has been lackluster, with 57 targets, 29 receptions, 556 yards, and four touchdowns through 13 games. Coleman, on the other hand, possesses all of the characteristics necessary to be an NFL team’s top wide receiver on the boundary. Young’s passing skills improved significantly over the second half of the season. Improved receiver play can only increase the likelihood that Young’s third season is his best.
Gary Davenport – Bleacher Report
As expected, McConkey went much higher than the second round in this re-draft, going No. 23 overall to the Jaguars. Hindsight is a beautiful thing, but Davenport is not alone in his assessment of Legette.
He possesses the athletic abilities required to be more impactful. Gaining that many reps in a competitive setting in the first year of his professional career would be beneficial. Legette should also be considerably healthier next season, having dealt with wrist and hamstring issues throughout the season.
Legette’s prospects for success remain bright. He may never be a real No. 1 option, but every effective team requires reliable complementary players capable of making a difference.
The Panthers have those in place, with Legette, Adam Thielen, and Jalen Coker all signed for next season. If they can eventually get their hands on a prolific WR1, Young’s prospects will improve.
This scenario adds urgency for Legette, who is held to a higher standard as a first-round pick. Given his mentality and desire to improve, it would be surprising if he did not emerge as a productive force as an NFL sophomore.
Anything less has significant implications.