The Carolina Panthers have just signed a new face. But the bigger news, perhaps, is what they had to do to make room for him.
As announced on Wednesday afternoon, the team has added defensive back Collin Duncan. In the corresponding room to free up a roster spot, the Panthers placed wideout Damiere Byrd on the injured reserve list.
Byrd sustained what head coach Frank Reich described as a “significant” hamstring injury back in training camp. Reich initially told reporters that he did not believe the setback was a season-ending development, but one closer to a timeline of about six to eight weeks.
Carolina brought back Byrd, who spent the first four years of his NFL career with the organization, on a one-year deal this spring. The speedy 5-foot-9, 175-pounder was expected to compete for the team’s return duties.
Barring an injury settlement, Byrd’s 2023 campaign is over.
As for the fresh addition, Duncan comes over after having spent time with the Los Angeles Rams this offseason. As the Panthers deal with a few injuries to their cornerback room, the Mississippi State product will serve as some needed depth for Friday’s preseason matchup against the New York Giants.
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