Saw on cbssportsline.com that Chad was released today. I must say, I'm a bit baffled by his production on the pro level. When he was released by the Falcons during pre-season last year, then-coach Jim Mora had made a comment in the Atlanta-Journal Constitution that Lavalais didn't seem to want to work hard--which surprised me until I read comments from Lavalais himself (reguarding a question asking about his lack of effort) and he said something along the lines as: "...doesn't matter, come Sundays, I'll be in there." Guess the Falcons and now Panthers are firm believers in the "you practice like you play" and Lavalais isn't the high-profile players like TO or Randy Moss for everyone to treat differently with reguards to practices...
Surprised me too. You'd think Atlanta releasing him may have been a wakeup call. Here's the article you're referencing: ESPN - Falcons cut DT Lavalais while getting down to 53-player limit - NFL
It's not just high-profile guys that are treated differently. It's generally anybody that has proven themselves to be productive at the pro level. Lavalais hasn't done squat in the pros, so he's fighting for a roster spot just like the guys without his pedigree.