South Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — This week marks a significant anniversary for Panthers linebacker Claudin Cherelus and cornerback D'Shawn Jamison. A year ago, both players were with different teams—Cherelus with the Jets and Jamison with the 49ers—before being claimed off waivers by the Carolina Panthers.

Reflecting on their experiences, Jamison described the sudden transition: "Everything just happened so quick," he said. "At first, I had people saying that I was staying there on the team, and then that happened, of course. Then, less than 24 hours later, I searched my name on Twitter, and it said that I got picked up by the Carolina Panthers. Nobody knew. The internet knew first, and then I knew."

Cherelus shared a similar story of abrupt change. He was about to sign a practice squad contract with the Jets when he was informed of his move to Carolina. "I was in the meeting room, probably five minutes in," he recalled. "It was me and a couple of the guys, and they were like, Claudin, come with me, bring your stuff; you're going to Carolina. And my mind kind of froze."

The waiver system allows teams to claim players who have fewer than four years of service time in the NFL. This often results in young players needing to adjust quickly to new environments and systems.

Despite these challenges, both players found ways to adapt swiftly. Cherelus highlighted how critical support from team staff helped him settle in: "It's just getting guys used to new settings just making sure the transition is good," said Kevin Winston, vice president of player affairs for the Panthers.

Jamison noted how logistical support eased his transition: "Then I'm making calls and stuff; I'm like, yo, I just got picked up by the Panthers," he said.

Cherelus echoed this sentiment but also emphasized focusing on football amid all other changes: "Don't make them regret it," he advised younger teammates. "They claimed you for a reason...make the most of your opportunities."

The experiences of Cherelus and Jamison underscore how quickly professional lives can change in the NFL and highlight the importance of adaptability for success.