Panthers WR DJ Chark hints at (kinda) new uniform number

Whether or not the Carolina Panthers will be wearing redesigned uniforms in 2023, DJ Chark is probably going to need a different number than the one he had last year. And it seems as though he already has an idea . . .

I think 17 might be the wave again

— DJ Chark (@DJChark82) March 25, 2023

Chark agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Panthers on Friday, right in the midst of the team’s visit to Lexington for University of Kentucky quarterback Will Levis. Per NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the pact is worth $5 million.

But the next number Chark will have to land on might be that No. 17—the digits he wore during his time with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He—in those threads—collected 147 receptions, 2,042 yards, 15 touchdowns and a Pro Bowl nod between 2018 and 2021.

The former second-rounder then moved on to the Detroit Lions, where he grabbed No. 4 for the 2022 campaign. That jersey, though, may be out of circulation in Carolina—as they’ve brought back the owner of the No. 4, kicker Eddy Piñeiro, on a two-year agreement on Thursday.

No. 17 was occupied in 2022 by wide receiver Rashard Higgins, who recorded just nine offensive snaps over three games. So maybe it’s time for the 1-7 to finally see some action again.