The Carolina Panthers created an additional $19.9 million in cap space by releasing three players on Friday.

Carolina released defensive end Stephen Weatherly, safety Tre Boston and punter Michael Palardy to improve the team's cap space to $28.473 million heading into the start of free agency next month.

The Carolina Panthers have released defensive tackle Kawann Short.

The two-time Pro Bowler has played in a combined five games over the past two seasons.

He was heading into the final year of a five-year, $80 million contract he signed in 2017 after having 24.5 sacks during a three-year span. He has since had only three sacks, all in 2018, when he started 14 games.

The Los Angeles Rams weren't the only team willing to give up a lot to acquire Matthew Stafford from the Detroit Lions.

The Chicago Bears, Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers were all offering a first-round pick and more in talks for Stafford.

The Indianapolis Colts, San Francisco 49ers and Washington Football Team were also in the mix to acquire the quarterback.