The Panthers made their first acquisition of the NFL's free agency signing period by inking wide receiver Wallace Wright, who excelled on special teams in four seasons with the New York Jets. Three times he finished among the top three on the team in special teams tackles.
Wright, 26, has played in 53 career games with one start and logged 70 special teams tackles in addition to posting eight receptions for 108 yards. Last year, he ranked third on the Jets with 22 special teams tackles in 16 games while helping them advance to the AFC Championship.
In 2008, Wright (6-foot-1, 197 pounds) produced his best season when he tied for the team lead with 26 special teams tackles in 16 games. He contributed in all 16 games, starting the season finale versus Kansas City, and finished third on the team with 16 special teams tackles in 2007. Signed by the Jets as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2006, Wright spent the first 11 games on the practice squad before being signed to the active roster for the final five games.
A former walk-on at North Carolina, Wright recorded 23 catches for 312 yards and four touchdowns. The Fayetteville, N.C., native attended Pine Forest High School.
