The Carolina Panthers have activated wide receiver Xavier Legette from injured reserve, ending a six-game absence, according to reports from the team's website and Pro Football Talk. Legette, who has been out since suffering a knee injury in Week 2, is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the NFC South rival New Orleans Saints.

Legette was a first-round pick, No. 32 overall, in 2024, but after two mediocre seasons this year is pivotal for him. The Panthers must decide on his fifth-year option in the offseason, and it looks likely they will decline it. Before his injury, which came on a 55-yard reception in Week 2, Legette had two catches for 64 yards on five targets in parts of two games, leaving him little opportunity to make a case for the option.S1

The reigning NFC South champion Panthers are 3-5, though that is still tied with the Saints for the best record in a weak division, so first place is at stake when the teams meet in New Orleans. Legette could rejoin a receiving corps where starters Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker have produced well, while Brycen Tremayne and John Metchie have combined for just 21 catches. Quarterback Bryce Young has leaned heavily on tight ends Darren Waller and Tommy Tremble, who have combined for 44 catches and seven touchdowns, so ESPN's David Newton says Legette will have to earn a role.S1

Legette's activation is the Panthers' third from injured reserve this season. The team also designated cornerback Mike Jackson and running back Jonathon Brooks for return earlier in the week but did not activate either on Saturday. Jackson is set to miss his sixth straight game while recovering from groin surgery, and the Panthers elevated cornerbacks Marco Wilson and Corey Thornton from the practice squad to add depth alongside Jaycee Horn, who remains on injured reserve, with Will Lee listed as questionable.S1S2