Panthers Shed More Payroll, Cut DT Damione Lewis

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- The Carolina Panthers have cut veteran defensive tackle Damione Lewis, further depleting their line in a move that shaves another $5 million off their rapidly shrinking payroll.

A week after the Panthers decided against paying defensive end Julius Peppers more than $20 million with the franchise tag, they parted ways with another starter on Thursday.

The 32-year-old Lewis had 41 tackles in 16 starts last season as he played with numerous other tackles in Carolina's banged-up line. Lewis had 48 tackles and 3 1/2 sacks in 2008, the first year he replaced Kris Jenkins as a starter.

The move leaves Carolina with no starters from the line that ended last season. Peppers, Tyler Brayton and Hollis Thomas are unrestricted free agents.

Click here to order Damione Lewis' proCane Rookie Card.



(witn.com)