Panthers Make Surprise Signing Ahead of Preseason Week 2

The Carolina Panthers made a notable addition to their secondary on Wednesday as they prepare for their second preseason contest against the New York Jets.

According to Joe Person of The Athletic, the Panthers signed veteran safety Rudy Ford. Ford spent the last two seasons with the Green Bay Packers, where he started in 15 games. 

To make room for the veteran defensive back on the 90-man roster, the Panthers announced that they waived defensive back Clayton Isbell and released defensive end Kemoko Turay off injured reserve.

The 29-year-old Ford is the perfect addition for the Panthers as they need someone who can play on special teams, plus handle defensive duties. Last month, Carolina lost safety and special teams ace Sam Franklin Jr. to a broken foot at the start of training camp.

Ford could be an adequate replacement for Franklin as he's been a core special teams player/gunner for most of his career but has improved his skills to become a spot starter on defense.

Last season with the Packers, Ford recorded 71 combined tackles, six pass deflections, and two interceptions in 13 games (nine starts). The veteran safety also shined in pass coverage, posting a 60.7 completion percentage allowed on targets, and only gave up one receiving touchdown.

Before spending the last two season with the Packers, Ford spent with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Philadelphia Eagles, and Arizona Cardinals.

Ford likely won’t start in Carolina this season as they are set with Xavier Woods and Jordan Fuller as their starters. However, Ford gives the Panthers another quality backup, along with Nick Scott in the secondary.

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