In a move that has stunned fans and sparked heated debate across the NFL and college football communities alike, the Carolina Panthers have officially waived rookie wide receiver Moose Muhammad III, son of franchise icon Muhsin Muhammad. The decision, announced late Friday afternoon, has left many questioning the franchise’s direction — and even more wondering what comes next for the young pass-catcher with a storied name.
A Name With History
For long-time Panthers fans, the name Muhammad evokes memories of clutch catches, bruising blocks, and one of the most dependable wideouts in team history. Muhsin Muhammad — affectionately known as “Moose” — ranks among the most beloved and productive players ever to wear Carolina blue, with over 9,000 receiving yards and 50+ touchdowns in his tenure.
So when Moose Muhammad III signed with Carolina as an undrafted free agent out of Texas A&M, it felt like a homecoming of sorts. The younger Muhammad brought his father’s toughness and football IQ to training camp, along with an impressive college resume that included 1,406 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns across three seasons in the SEC.
The Shocking Decision
Despite flashes of brilliance in rookie minicamp and early OTA sessions — including a highlight-reel catch that briefly went viral — the Panthers’ front office made the unexpected decision to cut ties with the young wideout before mandatory training camp. No injury designation was announced, and head coach Dave Canales offered little in the way of specifics during his brief media availability.
“We appreciate everything Moose brought to the organization during his time here,” Canales said. “It’s always a tough decision, especially when there’s history and legacy involved. We just felt it was the right move at this time.”
Fan Backlash and Legacy Fallout
The backlash from the Panthers fan base was immediate and intense. Social media erupted with criticism, with many accusing the team of disrespecting a legacy player’s son and failing to properly develop young talent.
“Cutting Moose Muhammad’s kid before the season even starts? That’s cold,” one longtime fan posted. “The kid had potential. His dad gave everything to this franchise.”
Even former Panthers players chimed in, with some privately expressing confusion over the move, calling it “premature” and “shortsighted.”
What’s Next for Moose III?
For Moose Muhammad III, the release may be disappointing — but it’s hardly the end. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound receiver possesses NFL-ready route-running ability and strong hands, and with his pedigree and college production, it’s likely another team will give him a shot.
Sources close to the player say he’s “staying focused, motivated, and ready for the next opportunity.”
Final Thoughts
The Panthers’ decision to waive Moose Muhammad III may have been based on roster logistics, depth chart shuffling, or simply a different vision for the receiver room — but one thing is clear: it struck a nerve. When legacy meets business in the NFL, emotions are inevitable. And this move? It was a shockwave.
Now, all eyes will be on where Moose III lands next — and whether the Panthers just let a future playmaker walk out the door.
Stay tuned for updates as the story unfolds…
