Laviska Shenault Jr. on big 2023 season: It’s bag year

As he enters the final season of his rookie deal, Panthers WR Laviska Shenault Jr. knows it’s “bag year” in 2023.

The Carolina Panthers may not know exactly how they want to use Laviska Shenault Jr. just yet. But the fourth-year wide receiver definitely knows what time it is.

Shenault Jr. held court with reporters for the first time in Spartanburg, S.C. this afternoon. When addressing the added muscle he’s put on since the last time we saw him, the 6-foot-1, 220-pounder said he has to be ready for anything and everything in 2023.

“I’m just doin’ what’s been asked of me and, of course, I had to train harder this offseason,” he said following Saturday’s practice. “Because I know what’s comin’. So I gotta be prepared . . . in every way possible.”

So, what’s coming?

“It’s bag year,” he added with a chuckle. “That’s what I’m talkin’ about. It’s bag year. I gotta be ready and prepare every way possible.”

A second-round pick of the Jacksonville Jaguars back in 2020, Shenault Jr. is entering the fourth and final year of his rookie deal. He didn’t put up exceptional numbers over the first three seasons of that pact, reeling in 148 balls for 1,491 yards and six touchdowns.

But if the 24-year-old can capture an expanded role in a Frank Reich offense, he may also be able to capture some expanded dollar signs in 2024.

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