Xavier Legette Emerges as Panthers' Leading Receiver Amid Bryce Young Injury

The Carolina Panthers have surged in the NFC South, moving to one game behind the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a recent third straight win, highlighted by a strong performance from wide receiver Xavier Legette. In a 13-6 victory over the New York Jets, Legette led with nine catches for 92 yards, including the game's only touchdown from quarterback Bryce Young, who later exited due to an ankle injury. Veteran Andy Dalton stepped in to finish the game, connecting frequently with Legette and showing promise as the likely starter while Young recovers from a high ankle sprain. Rookie Tetairoa McMillan remains the Panthers' top receiving option, but Legette's recent improvement positions him as a key target alongside McMillan. Defensively, the Panthers were dominant against the Jets, recording six sacks and two interceptions by Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn, contributing to the Jets' continued struggles and 0-7 record. The Panthers are now above .500 for the first time this late in a season since 2019, signaling a significant turnaround for the team.