During his media availability on Monday, Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule didn’t seem very optimistic about the status of Andre Roberts. Now, we know why.
As announced by the team 24 hours after Rhule spoke with reporters, Roberts has been placed on the injured reserve. The 34-year-old wide receiver and returner is expected to miss “considerable time” upon sustaining a knee injury during Week 1’s 26-24 loss to the Cleveland Browns.
Roberts was signed to a one-year deal this offseason, with hopes of solidifying the return role on special teams. Sunday saw the 13th-year veteran field a pair of kickoffs for a total of 35 yards along with a punt return of 10 yards.
Rhule, when asked of a potential replacement, seemed confident in handing over the responsibilities to fellow wideout Shi Smith. Expect the second-year wideout—who took reps on special teams during the summer—to fill the void left behind by Roberts on punts, with running back Chuba Hubbard as another possible option for kicks.
The Panthers, additionally, made a swap on their practice squad earlier in the day—releasing kicker Taylor Bertolet and bringing back tight end Josh Babicz.
