After spending his NFL career yo-yoing on and off the Carolina Panthers roster, Eku Leota has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. The NFL team announced on Tuesday that it had signed the former Auburn linebacker and former Theodore High School running back La’Mical Perine for its practice squad.

Panthers head coach Dave Canales, second from right, smiles as wide receiver Xavier Legette (17) approaches the sideline after scoring a touchdown during the game against the Bengals at Bank of America stadium in Charlotte, NC on Sunday, September 29, 2024. MELISSA MELVIN-RODRIGUEZ [email protected]

Carolina Panthers wideout Xavier Legette could be riding a standout performance right into an award. The 23-year-old receiver was named one of six nominees for the latest Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Week honors.

It looks like the Carolina Panthers nailed their first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The franchise’s history is littered with superstars selected in the draft’s opening round, and Legette may be the next one to carry that torch.