The Carolina Panthers made a roster move on Tuesday, waiving cornerback Kalen King to make room for safety Tre’von Moehrig, who’s returning from a one-game suspension.
For King, it’s another chapter in what’s already been a winding early-career journey. Drafted in the seventh round by the Packers in 2024 out of Penn State, the 22-year-old came into the league with solid college credentials but has struggled to find a consistent foothold on an active roster. His rookie deal was a standard four-year, $4.1 million contract, but he didn’t make it past Green Bay’s final roster cuts and spent most of his time bouncing between their practice squad and free agency.
King rejoined the Packers on a futures deal this past January, a move that briefly reignited hopes he might break through in Year 2. But once again, he was released during the final wave of roster cuts and landed on the Panthers’ practice squad.
His time in Carolina has been quiet. He’s appeared in just one game this season and didn’t record any stats. That’s not unusual for a depth corner coming up from the practice squad, but it does speak to how tough it is to carve out a role in today’s NFL, especially at a position as competitive as cornerback.
The Panthers' decision to part ways with King was driven by a need to activate Moehrig, a key piece in their secondary. With Moehrig returning from suspension, the team needed a roster spot, and unfortunately for King, he was the odd man out.
This doesn’t necessarily close the door on King’s NFL journey. Teams are always on the lookout for young, developmental defensive backs, especially ones with Power Five experience and special teams potential. But for now, his focus will likely shift back to staying ready and hoping for another opportunity-whether it’s back in Carolina or elsewhere.
As for the Panthers, getting Moehrig back gives their defense a boost. He’s been a steady presence on the back end, and his return should help stabilize a secondary that’s been tested throughout the season.