CHARLOTTE – The Panthers have released defensive tackle Ron Edwards.
Edwards, who signed with the Panthers as an unrestricted free agent in 2011 following 10 seasons with Buffalo and Kansas City, started 11 games in two seasons in Carolina.
"We appreciate the contributions that Ron has made to the Panthers the past two seasons," head coach Ron Rivera said. "He set a great example on and off the field for our young players, and we wish him well moving forward."
The 6-3, 325-pounder suffered a torn right triceps during his first practice as a Panther at training camp in 2011 and missed the entire season. He started the first 11 games of the 2012 season and recorded 16 tackles, one sack and one quarterback pressure before a dislocated left elbow again landed him on injured reserve.
Second-year player Frank Kearse started the final four games following Edwards' injury, with Sione Fua and Andre Neblett providing depth. Veteran Dwan Edwards, who produced six sacks last season, could become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins March 12, but Carolina has expressed interest in re-signing him.
The Panthers signed veteran defensive tackle Colin Cole on Feb. 7 and also have Nate Chandler on the roster at tackle, though Chandler played defensive end down the stretch as a rookie in 2012.
