Carolina Panthers Head Coach: He’s dismissed.

Carolina Panthers Head Coach: He’s dismissed.

As Carolina officially placed the 28-year-old back on the reserve/retired list on Tuesday, new Panthers running back Rashaad Penny abruptly announced his retirement from the NFL.

After playing with the Seattle Seahawks for five years and the Philadelphia Eagles for one, Penny recently signed with the Panthers during the summer. His uncertain route to playing time in a crowded Carolina backfield may have contributed to Penny’s choice, as did his lengthy history of injuries.

The Panthers believe that this announcement puts a stop to trade rumors involving Miles Sanders, even though the two players leading the position are Chubba Hubbard and newcomer Jonathan Brooks.

Panthers News: NFL Retirement Announced by RB Rashaad Penny

Originally selected out of San Diego State in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Penny was a very effective athlete who had trouble staying on the field; only once did he accumulate more over 85 carries.

Despite not having participated in more than ten games since his freshman season, he finished his career with an average of 5.6 yards per carry. With the Seahawks in 2021, Penny had his most productive season, running 119 times for 749 yards (6.3 YPC) and six touchdowns.

Since Carolina is now in the midst of training camp, Penny’s retirement opens doors for other players, even undrafted rookies, to compete for a roster place. With the addition of Brooks, Diontae Johnson, and Xavier Legette, Carolina’s offense is in a much better spot this year, so Dave Canales doesn’t have a big gap to cover in Penny’s absence.

Penny participated in just three games the Eagles in 2023, gaining 33 yards from 11 carries in addition to 5 yards from one catch. Although his retirement plans are unknown, we wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors, regardless of the course he decides to choose.