Panthers holding open competition for return duties

From their coaching staff to their depth chart, the Carolina Panthers have filled many vacancies this offseason. But the one at returner is still open.

On Tuesday, Joe Person of The Athletic tried to get an idea of how the spot will be filled—asking special teams coordinator Chris Tabor about the position. Tabor answered by saying it’s a work in progress.

“I think it’s just an open competition right now,” Tabor replied. “We have some guys that we’re kinda workin’ through. Some of the rookies just showed up. I don’t wanna specifically talk about any names because I’m always afraid that I’m gonna forget somebody’s name—and that would be bad business on my part.”

Well, luckily for Tabor, we’ll do the business part for him. Some leading candidates—on kickoffs and/or punts—may include running backs Raheem Blackshear and Chuba Hubbard as well as wide receivers Shi Smith, Laviska Shenault Jr. and free-agent signee Damiere Byrd—whom Tabor referred to as “The Byrd Man.”

Tabor was also asked if they’ll look at any out-of-house options.

“I think we’re always lookin’ at all rosters,” he stated. “So, no one in specific right now. And like I say, I’m never gonna single anyone out. But lookin’ forward working with the guys that we have in our building right now.”

Now, let’s see who the early bird (or Byrd) is.