14 Jan 11 The Carolina Panthers signed offensive lineman Mike Wahle and cornerback Ken Lucas to long-term contracts March 5 2005

CHARLOTTE, North Carolina - The Carolina Panthers signed offensive lineman Mike Wahle and cornerback Ken Lucas to long-term contracts, the most aggressive single day of free agent acquisitions in franchise history. Wahle, who spent 7 seasons in Green Bay, signed a 5 year deal worth about $25 million. Lucas, Miami Dolphins jersey
a 3 year starter in Seattle, signed a 6 year contract. Terms on Lucas' deal were not immediately available, but his signing bonus was believed to be $13 million. The Panthers didn't have to work very hard to sign either player. Both Wahle and Lucas made Carolina their first and only recruiting visit and came in hoping to get quick deals. Lucas said he desperately wanted to join Carolina's vaunted defense to play behind Julius Peppers and Kris Jenkins. Lucas was Seattle's 2nd round draft pick in 2001. He started 47 games and has 11 career interceptions. Lucas had 6 picks last season, tying him with Carolina CB Chris Gamble for most in the NFC. Now, he may push Gamble out of a starting job. Panthers coach John Fox said Lucas will start for Carolina, and Gamble and Ricky Manning Jr. will have to battle for the other slot. Gamble was a first-round draft pick last season, and Manning is best known for his 3 INTs against Philadelphia in the 2004 NFC championship game. Whale said winning a Super Bowl is his top priority and he believed he had a better shot at doing that with Carolina. The Panthers were the 2003 NFC champions, but lost to New England in the Super Bowl. The Packers were forced to release Wahle earlier this week in a salary cap move. Considered one of the top free-agent offensive linemen, he can play guard or tackle. The Panthers said they will start Wahle out at left guard. Because he is capable of playing anywhere on the line except center, the team is willing to move him around to find the best fit. Wahle has started 83 of 97 games in his career, including 64 straight. The signings are unusual for the Panthers, who have traditionally sat back during the first few days of free agency as teams frantically pursue new talent. Carolina has made a habit of waiting until the signing period calms down Minnesota Vikings
a bit, then combing through the leftovers. In addition, the Panthers said they were still optimistic they can re-sign LB Mark Fields. Originally thought to be an easy negotiation, he instead became a free agent. Carolina general manager Marty Hurney said he didn't know of any visits that Fields has lined up with other teams. Lastly, Fox said the Panthers would like WR Ricky Proehl to play another season and are waiting for Proehl to decide on his future.