Panthers Announce Jalen Coker Slot WR Role After Thielen Trade

Following the trade of veteran slot receiver Adam Thielen, Carolina Panthers GM Dan Morgan confirmed that Jalen Coker will take over as the team's primary slot receiver in 2025. Coker, an undrafted sophomore, showed promise during the 2024 season by playing 66.7% of his snaps from the slot and catching 32 passes for 478 yards, making him a natural fit to fill the slot void left by Thielen. His rapport with quarterback Bryce Young, who has shown improvement late in the 2024 season, bodes well for Coker's expanded role and target volume. With the departure of Hunter Renfrow and Thielen, Coker is positioned to be the WR2 for the Panthers alongside first-round wide receivers Xavier Legette and Tetairoa McMillan. Analysts suggest Coker’s role increase makes him a valuable fantasy football asset, especially in 12-team leagues. Overall, the Panthers are banking on Coker’s development to help support Young’s growth as their franchise quarterback.