CHARLOTTE — With Denzel Perryman facing a longer-than-expected absence because of a recent training camp injury and other issues stacking up, the Panthers added some experienced help at linebacker.
They signed veteran linebacker Josh Bynes Wednesday, before heading to Indianapolis for joint practices with the Colts.
The soon-to-be-32-year-old Bynes started every game for the Bengals last year. He began his career as an undrafted rookie with the Ravens, and has also spent time with the Lions and Cardinals (where he played alongside Haason Reddick).
He was part of Auburn's 2011 national championship team, and was a member of the Ravens' Super Bowl XLVII-winning team. He tackled Ted Ginn Jr. on the final free kick of that game to seal the win.
The Panthers had an open roster spot after waiving fullback Mikey Daniel Tuesday.
With backup linebackers Julian Stanford and Clay Johnston missing recent practices, the Panthers were running short on inside linebackers, and Bynes adds a proven commodity.
Also Wednesday, the Panthers activated safety Lano Hill from the reserve/COVID-19 list and then released him. Hill signed after trying out during rookie minicamp, but they've added a number of safety options since then.
