Carolina Panthers sign edge rusher Charles Harris to enhance pass rush

The Carolina Panthers have signed free agent edge rusher Charles Harris to strengthen their pass rush, as confirmed by a source familiar with the situation. The announcement is pending the results of a physical examination. Harris, who is 29 years old, had a standout season in 2021 with the Detroit Lions, recording a career-high 7.5 sacks. However, he has faced injury challenges, starting only seven games and playing in 19 over the last two seasons. The Panthers are currently facing difficulties in their pass rush, exacerbated by a potential season-ending knee injury to Pro Bowl defensive end Derrick Brown, which occurred during their season-opening loss to the New Orleans Saints. The team is also looking to fill Brown's position, as they previously traded away their top edge rusher, Brian Burns, and lost Frankie Luvu to free agency. In an effort to bolster their defensive line, the Panthers had hoped to sign Jadeveon Clowney and D.J. Wonnum during the offseason. However, Wonnum has started the season on injured reserve, leaving the team with limited options at the edge rusher position. As it stands, Clowney is the only edge rusher on the roster with an NFL sack prior to the season opener. Harris was originally selected as the 22nd overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins. His addition to the team is seen as a crucial step in addressing the Panthers' defensive struggles and enhancing their overall performance in the upcoming season.