The final three players from the Michigan Panthers who were on NFL rosters have been cut. Between Monday and Tuesday, Jameson Houston of the Seahawks, TJ Carter of the Rams, and Ishmael Hyman of the Packers were all released or waived in preparation of teams finalizing their 53-man roster.
Houston was one of two corners that were signed by NFL teams. Houston partner in crime Tino Ellis was waived by the Dolphins with an injury settlement and now unemployed. Houston now a free agent, will have to wait to see if any NFL team comes calling or if he will go back to spring football and play for either an XFL or USFL franchise.
Ishmael Hyman and TJ Carter are the final Panthers to be released by NFL squads. Hyman had a strong pre-season and has NFL experience with the Bucs, Browns, and Panthers however, didn’t do enough to make the final 53 or Practice squad at this time. Hyman finished the pre-season with 2 receptions for 17 yards, and 3 punt returns for 21 yards.
Carter, who was cut by the Saints earlier in camp was given an opportunity to come back to the NFL with Rams on 16 Aug. Carter despite being a late addition and being cut again did manage to land a spot on the Rams practice squad becoming the one Panthers player to maintain consistent NFL employment.
With NFL practice squads subject to constant changes weekly maybe even daily expect more movement of USFL players to happen. Out of the original 51 players to be signed so far only KaVontae Turpin, a CPA, has made the Active Roster. With an 18-week season it’s fair to assume that there will be more USFL players garnering an opportunity to play in the NFL.
Pat Rifino is a former Security Contractor turned writer. He began his writing career talking about geo-politics, and the defense industry. Now Pat writes about alt-league football, while hanging out with his dogs in his off time.