Carolina Panthers

RB Fozzy Whittaker signs 2-year deal with Carolina Panthers


Carolina Panthers running back Fozzy Whittaker (43) saw his role in the offense increase late in the season. Monday, he signed a new, two-year deal with the team.
Carolina Panthers running back Fozzy Whittaker (43) saw his role in the offense increase late in the season. Monday, he signed a new, two-year deal with the team. jsiner@charlotteobserver.com

One of the best names in the NFL remains with the Panthers.

Running back Fozzy Whittaker signed a two-year deal with Carolina, the team announced Monday. Whittaker, who was an exclusive rights free agent, emerged last season, and the Panthers will go into 2015 with Jonathan Stewart and Whittaker as their top two tailbacks.

Whittaker rushed 32 times for 145 yards and one touchdown last season while battling a quadriceps injury. He also caught a 39-yard touchdown pass in Carolina’s playoff win against Arizona.

He was also the team’s primary kick returner later in the season. Whittaker averaged 23.8 yards per return with 11 returns.

The Panthers announced Whittaker’s signing along with three other exclusive rights free agents. Receiver Brenton Bersin, linebacker Ben Jacobs and offensive lineman Brian Folkerts each receiver one-year contracts.

Carolina did not offer offensive tackle Kevin Hughes – the team’s only other exclusive rights free agent – and he will be free to sign with another team on Tuesday.

Jones: 704-358-5323; Twitter: @jjones9

This story was originally published March 9, 2015 at 12:04 PM with the headline "RB Fozzy Whittaker signs 2-year deal with Carolina Panthers."

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