The Panthers designated safety Da’Norris Searcy to return from injured reserve, per a team announcement. Searcy has already missed eight games due to a pair of concussions suffered in September, so he can be activated at any time. 
Searcy joined the Panthers on a two-year, $5.7MM deal this offseason with the ability to make up to $3.1MM in 2017. A former fourth-round pick, Searcy managed 12 tackles and one interception last year while grading as the NFL’s No. 61 safety among 87 qualifiers, per Pro Football Focus.
After Searcy’s exit, the Panthers signed former 49ers safety Eric Reid to fill the void. Reid has been serviceable this season, though the advanced metrics indicate that he is not performing at his 2017 level. It’s not clear whether Searcy will regain his starting role, but he will certainly be in the rotation if he’s able to play.
Per league rules, the Panthers have a 21-day window to activate the veteran. If he is not activated during that time, Searcy will be ineligible to return this season.