CHARLOTTE – Michael Palardy's season is over. The Panthers punter has been placed on injured reserve after pulling his hamstring during the loss to the Chiefs.

Carolina has brought back punter Michael Palardy to replace Lee. Palardy was initially signed to compete for the punting job this offseason but was waived during organized team activities. He has spent time on the Browns' and Falcons' practice squads during the 2016 season.

Lee became the team's punter just prior to the start of the regular season. Carolina traded a fourth-round draft choice in 2018 and punter Kasey Redfern to acquire him from the Browns. The Panthers also received a 2017 seventh-round pick from Cleveland.

Lee was having a terrific season. He currently ranks fourth in the NFL in punting average (49.1) and 14th in net average (40.4). He ranks seventh in punts downed inside the 20-yard line with 18.

In the season opener at Denver, Lee set team records with a 63.0-yard gross average and a 76-yard punt.