The Panthers have reunited with Wes Horton, announcing today that they’ve signed the free agent defensive end. Carolina already had an open roster spot, so no corresponding move was necessary.
Horton, 29, has essentially spent his entire career with the Panthers. He signed a free agent deal with the Saints in May, but he never actually appeared in a game for New Orleans and was released after Week 1. Since then, Horton worked out for the Giants but otherwise hasn’t drawn much interest on the free agent market.
Horton originally signed with the Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 2013. Over the next six years, Horton worked mainly in a rotational role, playing between 25% and 50% of Carolina’s defensive snaps. His best season came in 2017, when he appeared in all 16 games for the Panthers and posted 5.5 sacks and eight quarterback hits.
Now that he’s back in Carolina, Horton will likely be counted to contribute in that reserve role once again. He’ll play behind fellow edge rushers Brian Burns, Bruce Irvin while also chipping in on special teams.