Panthers Cut Jason Avant

After recording just 21 receptions for 201 yards and 1 touchdown, the Panthers have decided to part ways with veteran wide receiver Jason Avant.

#Panthers waive WR Jason Avant, place OT Nate Chandler on IR: http://t.co/Z8lYrTXgVG pic.twitter.com/r0hbItRaYy

— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 18, 2014

Avant was critical of Head Coach Ron Rivera’s play calling after last Sunday’s loss to the Falcons and some believe that may have led to his departure.

“I’ve been in the league a long time. I know two things. You never want to give a team a chance to win a game, with how much time was left on the clock. And asking a kicker to make a 50-yard field goal with the game on the line is rough sledding,” Avant said, via Joe Person of the Charlotte Observer. “If that’s the only option, yes. But if it’s not, you want to get as close as you can and think score and play to score a touchdown. Because I’d rather the team have to score a touchdown to win the game than to have to kick a field goal. It’s just a lot different. It’s a 30-yard difference.”

I personally think the curse of Steve Smith continues – Avant took over this locker when he was cut during the off-season.

Rivera still believes this team has a chance at making it to the playoffs and with this year’s dismal NFC South he’s statistically correct, but I’m not sure if shaking up the roster will help things.