Panthers roster moves: Two defenders cut to make room for LB Deion Jones, DT Nick Thurman
The Panthers made the signings of linebacker Deion Jones and defensive tackle Nick Thurman official on Tuesday after releasing a pair of defenders from their 90-man roster.
The team agreed to terms with Jones and Thurman on Monday, and Carolina made room for the two new players by waiving defensive tackle John Penisni and outside linebacker Arron Mosby on Tuesday.
Penisini was waived with a failed physical designation. The former Detroit Lions lineman came out of a one-year retirement and signed with the Panthers in April. He spent most of the offseason program watching from the sideline. He was then placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list ahead of training camp last month. Penisini counted against the 90-man roster, so the Panthers opened up a roster spot by waiving him off the injury list. Penisini is the second nose tackle to be waived by the Panthers in consecutive days, as the team waived Bravvion Roy on Monday to make room for defensive end LaBryan Ray.
Mosby joined the team last offseason as an undrafted rookie. He appeared in three games and collected one tackle in limited action. He spent a good portion of the season on the practice squad. Now, he will look for second NFL team on the waiver wire.
Mosby’s waiving is somewhat of a curious decision, as the Panthers are light on edge rushers with Marquis Haynes dealing with a back injury. The move could open up more reps for early summer standout, Kobe Jones, who has four would-be sacks through four practices. The team also has Brian Burns, third-round pick DJ Johnson, Amare Barno and Yetur Gross-Matos at the position.
The Panthers’ roster is once again at the 90-man limit ahead of Tuesday’s training camp practice. Jones will wear No. 53 — Roy’s old number — while Thurman will inherit Penisini’s No. 76 jersey.
