Krys Barnes has found his latest NFL opportunity. The veteran linebacker signed with the Panthers on Sunday, per a team announcement.
Barnes operated as a starter during his first two seasons with the Packers, reaching 80 tackles on each occasions. His was limited to only six games and a reduced role in 2022, nonetheless, and the previous undrafted free agent moved on after the campaign. Barnes had been with the Cardinals for the past two years.
In Arizona, the 27-year-old saw time on defense but his largest workload got here about through special teams. Barnes totaled 513 third phase snaps, and it might come as no surprise if he were to search out himself in the same situation in Carolina. The UCLA product will spend the rest of coaching camp, together with the preseason, attempting to carve out a roster spot for himself.
The Panthers elected to not retain Shaq Thompson this offseason, ending his 10-year run with the organization. More recently, Carolina released fellow linebacker Josey Jewell as he continues to get better from a concussion. The lack of those two will leave the Panthers short on experience, although free agent addition Christian Rozeboom is in line to tackle a starting role. Barnes will likely be counted on as a core special teamer, but with 30 starts to his name he could step right into a defensive role if needed.
In a corresponding move, the Panthers waived linebacker Tuasivi Nomura. The Fresno State product was among the many team’s UDFA class, but he’s now set to depart after spending the spring and part of coaching camp in Carolina. Presuming no team puts in a claim, Nomura will change into a free agent.