Story perspectives

Panthers Retire QB Will Grier, Left with Three QBs

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Carolina Panthers placed quarterback Will Grier (31) on the reserve/retired list on Wednesday.
Grier rejoined the Panthers on April 21 after being released by the Dallas Cowboys on March 12.
A 2019 third-round (No. 100) pick from West Virginia, Grier started two games, completing 28 of 52 passes for 228 yards and four interceptions.
His retirement leaves the Panthers with three quarterbacks—Bryce Young, Kenny Pickett and undrafted rookie Haynes King.

History

Historical Context

In 1999, the NFL suspended quarterback Michael Vick after a dog-fighting scandal, forcing the Washington Redskins to reshuffle their roster. Commissioner Paul Tagliabue announced a 12-game ban, and Vick, the No. 1 overall pick, missed the entire 1999 season, costing the league $30 million in lost merchandise. Similarly, the Carolina Panthers moved veteran Will Grier to the reserve/retired list, leaving only Bryce Young, Kenny Pickett and rookie Haynes King as quarterbacks. The recurrence shows how abrupt quarterback losses force franchises to fast-track younger players, reshaping roster planning and future draft priorities across the NFL.

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Story summary

The Carolina Panthers placed quarterback Will Grier (31) on the reserve/retired list on Wednesday.
Grier rejoined the Panthers on April 21 after being released by the Dallas Cowboys on March 12.
A 2019 third-round (No. 100) pick from West Virginia, Grier started two games, completing 28 of 52 passes for 228 yards and four interceptions.
His retirement leaves the Panthers with three quarterbacks—Bryce Young, Kenny Pickett and undrafted rookie Haynes King.

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