Panthers Make Two Roster Moves After Recent Camp Injury

The Carolina Panthers announced a pair of roster moves on Wednesday, signing RB Dillon Johnson and waiving WR Daewood Davis with an injury designation.

Davis hurt his thigh during Monday's practice. He was expected to be out for multiple weeks and given Carolina's depth at receiver, his release makes sense. Johnson's addition fills a sudden potential need following Rashaad Penny's unexpected retirement on Tuesday.

An undrafted free agent out of Washington, Johnson spent the spring with the Tennessee Titans and could push for a roster spot if rumors about Miles Sanders' trade availability are true.

Panthers News: Carolina Signs RB Dillon Johnson, Waives WR Daewood Davis

The six-foot, 217-pound Johnson began his college career at Mississippi State before transferring to Washington. He compiled 2,393 rushing yards and 27 touchdowns through 37 games, displaying a true dual-threat, workhorse skillset.

Carolina's running back room is crowded with Chuba Hubbard, Jonathon Brooks, and Sanders, but Johnson's talent is hard to ignore. In his lone year as a Husky, he ran for 1,113 yards and 14 TDs, including a remarkable 256-yard, four-TD performance against one of the best teams in college football in USC.

Like most undrafted players, it'll be an uphill battle for him to make the 53-man roster. However, he could stick on the practice squad or potentially showcase his ability for another team in the preseason. It's a savvy move by the Panthers given Penny's departure, keeping their options open under first-year head coach Dave Canales.

If Johnson shines, Sanders becomes more expendable. If he doesn't, there's no harm done since Davis was hurt anyway. For a rebuilding team desperate to find difference-makers at every position, Johnson is a worthy dart-throw at this stage in camp.

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