Panthers sign WR Parker

Panthers sign WR Parker

The Panthers have signed veteran WR Samie Parker, who was released by Denver on Monday.

Parker, 27, adds speed and experience to a wide receiver position that has been thinned by injuries and Steve Smith's suspension for the first two games.

Parker, a former track sprinter at Oregon, caught 110 passes for 1,529 yards and seven touchdowns in four seasons with Kansas City.

He signed with Denver in the offseason, but didn't fit into the Broncos' West Coast offense, and was released Monday.

Because he's a vested veteran, he didn't have to go through the waiver system and was available immediately.

The Panthers hope he'll be a better fit in their scheme. Coach John Fox said he could also get a look as a kick returner.

To make room for Parker on the roster, the Panthers released WR Sean Bailey, formerly of Georgia.

Parker might get some playing time in Thursday's exhibition finale at Pittsburgh. The Panthers hope to have him on the regular-season roster for the opening game Sept. 7 at San Diego.

Against the Chargers, the Panthers expect to be without three of the top six receivers from training camp. Smith will be serving the first of a two-game suspension for punching teammate Ken Lucas. Ryne Robinson is unlikely to be back for the opener as he recovers from a knee injury. Jason Carter was placed on injured reserve this week after tearing his ACL against the Redskins last Saturday. Also, the Panthers are still waiting on veteran D.J. Hackett to return from a toe injury.

-- Charles Chandler

http://blogs.charlotte.com/panthers/2008/08/panthers-sign-w.html