CHARLOTTE – Quarterback Derek Anderson is returning to the Panthers for another season after re-signing as an unrestricted free agent.
Anderson has been Cam Newton's primary backup for the past two years. His return maintains continuity in the Panthers quarterback room with Newton and Jimmy Clausen.
Anderson was 4-for-4 on pass attempts in 2012 after zero pass attempts in 2011. He played against the Giants in Week 3 and in the season finale against the Saints when Newton was briefly sidelined due to injury in the fourth quarter. Anderson moved the Panthers to the New Orleans 12-yard line and Newton returned to help finish the drive with a touchdown.
Anderson initially came to Carolina after one year with the Arizona Cardinals and four with the Cleveland Browns. His stint in Cleveland was highlighted by a Pro Bowl campaign in 2007, when he threw for 3,787 yards and 29 touchdowns.
