Panthers Sign Charles Harris After Injury to Brown

The Carolina Panthers have agreed to sign free agent edge rusher Charles Harris following the potential season-ending knee injury to Pro Bowl defensive lineman Derrick Brown. Harris, 29, is expected to play outside linebacker in the Panthers' 3-4 scheme rather than directly replacing Brown. He had a career-best 7.5 sacks in 2021 while playing under the same defensive line coach now with Carolina. The Panthers are seeking to bolster their pass rush after managing only one sack in their season opener, especially with D.J. Wonnum on injured reserve. Brown is currently awaiting a second opinion on his injury, which could lead to surgery. The team had an open roster spot after releasing tight end Feleipe Franks to accommodate Harris's signing.