The Carolina Panthers added some depth on Monday by signing free agent defensive tackle Darwin Walker, according to the Associated Press. The two parties agreed to terms on a one-year deal after Walker was let go by the Bears in February. "He had an injury-riddled year last year with Chicago, which he was very disappointed in because it cost him millions of dollars not having his option picked up," his agent Al Irby said. "Darwin didn't want to go out like that. So he's been down in Miami, working very, very hard. He's bound and determined to redeem himself after last year."

Defensive end Mike Rucker, the second-leading tackler in Panthers' history and one of the team's most recognizable players, is retiring after nine NFL seasons, as reported by the Associated Press. Rucker will make the announcement at an afternoon news conference at Bank of America Stadium, a team official said Tuesday.

Veteran Panthers' wide receiver Steve Smith wants Dwyane Jarrett to produce this coming season, according to the Associated Press. "You know, the party session is actually over. This is the NFL," Smith said. "You make plays. You're here to play football. You do the party scene at your own discretion, but on Sundays, we're here to play football. If you can't play football, you won't be playing with the Carolina Panthers or any NFL team." "So, this isn't a poke at anybody," he added. "That's just the way it is. You know, you produce, you're in. You don't produce, you're out."

The Panthers will likely look at an offensive tackle with their first pick, but they may consider a power running back to pair with DeAngelo Williams. Illinois' Rashard Mendenhall or Oregon's Jonathan Stewart could be options for Carolina.

Panthers' receiver Dwayne Jarrett has pleaded not guilty to driving while impaired, according to an Associated Press report. Jarrett did not attend a brief hearing Friday where his attorney entered the plea. Mecklenburg County District Court spokesman Charles Keller said a trial date was set for June 23.

The Panthers have signed safety Terrence Holt to a one-year contract, according to the Detroit Free Press. He is the younger brother of St. Louis receiver Torry Holt and started all sixteen games for the Cardinals last season. However, the team released him in late February. He spent his first four seasons with the Lions.