One former Gamecock could have a big opportunity after a trade in the NFL

Former South Carolina wide receiver Xavier Legette didn't have to go very far when he was drafted by the Carolina Panthers with the 32nd pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Legette was one of South Carolina's best receivers, especially in his last seas as he had 71 receptions for 1,255 yards and seven touchdowns.

In his first season with the Panthers, Legette has had an up-and-down season, but some of that could be because of the quarterback situation in Carolina. The Panthers started the season with former Alabama quarterback Bryce Young, who, after a disastrous rookie season, was hoping to improve this year, but it doesn't seem that is going to be the case.

The Panthers chose to make a change at the quarterback position by starting longtime veteran Andy Dalton, which seemed to work for a couple of weeks, but the newness has worn off. After Dalton got into a car accident before Week 8, Young is back at the helm at quarterback.

As a rookie, Legette has done well with 22 receptions for 211 yards and three touchdowns. Legette is the second-leading receiver for the Panthers and has the second-most targets and receptions behind Diontae Johnson.

Well, this past week, the Panthers made a trade with the Baltimore Ravens to send Johnson up north to be on the field with reigning MVP Lamar Jackson.

So, with Johnson gone, Legette will now become the top receiver for the Panthers, especially with veteran Adam Theilen out with an injury for the time being. Legette has the opportunity to truly make a name for himself in the league now that Johnson is gone. The Panthers now just need to figure out what they are doing at the quarterback position in order to help Legette grow more in the NFL.