Panthers make Russell Shepard signing official

Just hours after reports surfaced that the Carolina Panthers would be losing one of their most-targeted receivers in Ted Ginn Jr. to NFC South rival New Orleans through free agency, another foe bore fruit.

A league source told the Charlotte Observer Thursday that it was “realistic to expect” that the Panthers work a deal out with Tampa Bay wide receiver Russell Shepard.

On Friday, the team confirmed the 3-year deal.

Shepard is considered an “up-and-comer” receiver who especially stands out on special teams – perhaps as a replacement for free agent Philly Brown (also gifted in that area), who will be testing the market this season.

Shepard, an LSU product and Houston native, has 30 catches for 432 yards and three touchdowns over a 3-year career – 23 catches and 341 yards notably came in 2016. Shepard also averaged 14.8 yards per catch last season and recovered a fumble on special teams.

The Panthers are still expected to draft at least one receiver and will meet privately with the NFL Combine’s 40-yard dash record-holder, Washington receiver John Ross.

This story was originally published March 9, 2017 at 10:53 PM with the headline "Panthers make Russell Shepard signing official."