The Panthers have waived defensive end Wes Horton, the team announced on Twitter. Offensive tackle David Foucault has been promoted from the practice squad to take the open roster spot.
Horton, an undrafted rookie in 2013, made 15 starts for the Panthers last season in place of suspended teammate Greg Hardy. Following a rookie campaign that saw him compile eight tackles and two sacks, the former USC standout finished 2014 with 26 tackles and three sacks.
The 25-year-old hasn’t seen much of the field in 2015, as ProFootballFocus.com (subscription required) has him down for 58 snaps. However, the site does rate him positively for his run defense, the first time he’s received an above-average grade in his career.
Foucault was a first-round pick in the 2014 CFL draft, but he ultimately joined the Panthers during last season’s rookie camp. The 26-year-old made five appearances in 2014, including one start. With Amini Silatolu expected to sit out this weekend’s game, the team needed reinforcement at offensive tackle.