Panthers Receiver ejected in Preseason Brawl

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Xavier Legette’s sophomore season kicked off in an unexpected way. During the team’s first preseason game against the Cleveland Browns on Friday night, he became involved in a heated altercation.

Legette, who was the Panthers’ first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, was ejected alongside Browns safety Rayshaun Jenkins with just six minutes remaining in the first quarter. The two exchanged blows on the field after what seemed to be continuous physical blocking from Jenkins after the play was called dead.

In the midst of their confrontation, Legette threw several punches, while Jenkins managed to take off his helmet. Panthers head coach Dave Canales addressed the situation post-game, noting that while Legette was in the heat of the moment, both players warranted disqualification due to their aggressive conduct.

“We instructed our receiver to use his hands effectively. Yet, he ended up entangled with the defender for too long,” Canales said. “Then they started trading punches—you just can’t have that. Both were rightly sent off.”

He added, “While it’s a physical game and emotions can run high, throwing punches puts us at a disadvantage.”

After the incident, Legette took to social media to apologize, expressing regret over what had transpired. He mentioned, “Panthers Nation, I’m sorry for letting that happen. I appreciate your support.”

The Panthers will now focus on their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints, set for September 8.