Former Detroit Lions pass-rusher Charles Harris has joined the Carolina Panthers in a move aimed at bolstering their defensive front. On Wednesday, September 11, Harris signed with the Panthers, marking a new chapter in his career with one of the NFL’s teams currently ranked lower in terms of performance.
The announcement came following an initial report by NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero on Tuesday, September 10. The Panthers officially confirmed the signing in a press release, highlighting the addition of Harris as a strategic move to enhance their outside linebacker position. At 29 years old, Harris brings a wealth of experience from his three seasons with the Lions, where he contributed significantly to their pass rush.
Charles Harris was originally a first-round pick for the Miami Dolphins, and over his seven-year NFL career, he has accumulated a total of 16.5 sacks. His track record of production and experience makes him a valuable asset for the Panthers as they look to improve their defensive capabilities.
In their statement, the Panthers acknowledged that they are evaluating several younger players for the position opposite Jadeveon Clowney. DJ Johnson and Eku Leota, who have been sharing time at the spot, will now have Harris as a seasoned counterpart. This move suggests the Panthers are looking to balance their lineup with a mix of youth and experience.
In addition to the signing of Harris, the Panthers also made another roster move on September 11 by re-signing tight end Feleipe Franks to their practice squad. Franks had been waived just the day before, on September 9, but his return to the practice squad indicates ongoing adjustments to the team’s roster.
Brad Berreman of SideLion Report noted that Harris’s signing was anticipated, citing previous reports from ESPN’s David Newton about the Panthers’ interest in Harris. Furthermore, Berreman pointed out that Harris’s connection to Carolina’s defensive line coach, Todd Wash, who held the same position with the Lions during the 2021 and 2022 seasons, likely played a role in the decision. This relationship may have facilitated Harris’s transition to the Panthers, as familiar coaching dynamics can often influence such signings.
Overall, Charles Harris’s move to the Carolina Panthers represents a strategic effort to infuse experience into their defensive line as they continue to refine their team for the upcoming NFL season.
