Social media erupted with outrage after a video of Carolina Panthers rookie wide receiver Xavier Legette hunting, skinning, and grilling a squirrel went viral on Friday. The clip, which has amassed over 2.9 million views, drew a polarized response, with some fans labeling the act “vile and barbaric” and others defending Legette’s traditional hunting practices.
The Viral Video
In the video, Legette can be seen holding a partially skinned squirrel, narrating the process: “We done bust the squirrel out the tree and opened him up. Take the clothes off him.” The footage then cuts to a scene of the squirrel meat, chopped up and cooking on a grill.
The unconventional content quickly sparked a heated debate in the comment section, with a significant number of viewers expressing their disgust.
Public Backlash
“This is vile and barbaric. This is also why I’m a vegan,” one user commented, summing up the sentiments of many.
Another user suggested disciplinary action, writing, “WTF? He should be suspended.”
A third chimed in, accusing Legette of crossing ethical boundaries: “He needs to be arrested for animal abuse.”
Others mocked the situation, with one user quipping, “Someone let him know he can hire a private chef and never have to do this again.”
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Voices of Support
While the backlash was significant, a faction of fans came to Legette’s defense, arguing that his actions were rooted in self-reliance and survival skills.
“All I know is when s*** hits the fan and I have to hunt for food to survive, I’d want to be with this dude,” one supporter wrote.
Another fan added, “He hunts and fends for himself. He’s not hitting women or having 27 baby mommas. Calm down,” referencing controversies involving other NFL players.
Legette’s History with Unique Cuisine
Legette’s penchant for unconventional meats is well-documented. Earlier this season, he brought a container of raccoon meat to the Panthers locker room, offering it to teammates and media members brave enough to sample it.
His Thanksgiving appearance on the St. Brown Podcast with Amon-Ra and Equanimeous St. Brown also highlighted his distinctive palate. “I don’t eat the bell peppers and all that extra stuff like that … That stuff is too exotic,” Legette joked, before adding, “The [raccoon] is regular to me. I’ve been eating that since I came out.”
On the Field
Despite the off-field controversy, Legette has made a solid start to his NFL career. Drafted by the Panthers with the 32nd overall pick in 2024, the South Carolina native finished his rookie season with 49 receptions for 497 yards and four touchdowns.
A Divisive Figure
The squirrel-hunting video has cemented Legette as one of the most polarizing figures in the NFL. While some see his actions as a testament to his roots and self-sufficiency, others view them as outdated and cruel. Whether celebrated or criticized, one thing is certain: Xavier Legette knows how to get people talking.
