Carolina Panthers Sign NFL Rookie JJ Weaver With Six Fingers

JJ Weaver, a linebacker born with polydactyly resulting in six fully functioning fingers on his right hand, has signed with the Carolina Panthers. Weaver, who played six seasons at the University of Kentucky and was a three-time team captain, originally signed with the Los Angeles Chargers but was waived before joining the Panthers. Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing around 250 pounds, Weaver brings notable college statistics, including 21.5 sacks and 197 tackles, and is now competing for a backup linebacker spot on Carolina's roster. His rare condition, which occurs in about one in 1,000 births, has drawn attention but is not considered a competitive advantage or disadvantage by the NFL. Panthers teammate Trevin Wallace has publicly acknowledged Weaver's unique trait, emphasizing it as a positive aspect. Weaver faces an uphill battle to make the 53-man roster but could still earn a spot on the practice squad or attract interest from other NFL teams.