The Carolina Panthers are getting a familiar face back on the field, as wide receiver David Moore has been designated to return from injured reserve. That move officially opens his 21-day practice window, giving the team a few weeks to evaluate his readiness before deciding whether to activate him to the 53-man roster.
Moore has been sidelined since Week 4 after suffering an elbow injury that landed him on IR. Now, with the Panthers looking to finish strong down the stretch, his potential return adds some depth and veteran presence to a receiving corps that’s been searching for consistency all season.
At 31, Moore isn’t new to the grind. A former seventh-round pick out of East Central back in 2017, he carved out a role with the Seahawks early in his career, flashing big-play ability and a knack for making contested catches. After a solid run in Seattle, Moore bounced around with a few teams - including the Raiders, Broncos, Bears, and Buccaneers - before landing in Carolina ahead of the 2024 season.
This year, Moore has only appeared in four games and has just one catch for five yards to his name. But his experience and familiarity with the system could prove valuable, especially if injuries or performance issues continue to shuffle the depth chart at wide receiver.
The Panthers also made another roster move, signing running back Montrell Johnson to the practice squad. With the backfield already dealing with its share of wear and tear, Johnson gives the team another option to develop behind the scenes or potentially elevate if needed.
While Moore’s stat line this season doesn’t jump off the page, his return is more about what he brings behind the numbers - a steady hand, a veteran voice in the locker room, and someone who knows how to navigate the ups and downs of an NFL season. If he can stay healthy and find a rhythm in practice, don’t be surprised if he earns a shot to contribute again before the year wraps up.
For a Panthers team still trying to build momentum, every piece matters - and Moore might just be one of those glue guys who helps hold things together.