CHARLOTTE - Injured Panthers wide receiver Curtis Samuel didn't let his season-ending ankle surgery keep him from playing Santa Claus for some local kids.
Or Curtis Claus, as he called it.
Samuel spent time on Tuesday with 85 kids at the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Club on Milton Road, giving them gifts, snacks, taking selfies, and even playing some (seated) basketball.
"Make these kids happy, that's my main goal," Samuel said. "To be able to come out here and share this time with them is amazing for me."
Samuel played in 9 games for the Panthers this season, grabbing 15 catches for 115 yards. He also returned 10 kicks for 221 yards.
He injured his ankle in a win over the Miami Dolphins on Nov. 13.
"I'm feeling great," he told NBC Charlotte. "I'm in a boot now, out of the cast. That's a relief. Just trying to get myself ready for next season."