What happened: The Panthers have agreed to terms with linebacker Bobby Okereke as they trim the roster to 53 players, though the signing is not yet official. Carolina waived seven players in the process: defensive tackles Kyon Barrs and Tywone Malone, wide receivers Elijah Cooks and Roc Taylor, running back Miles Davis, offensive tackle Ryan Hayes and tight end Caden Prieskorn. The Panthers also released wide receiver Dan Chisena off injured reserve.

Why it matters: Okereke, the linebacker Carolina had been lining up a day earlier, started all 46 games he played over three seasons with the Giants, racking up 385 tackles, 5.5 sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery. He spent his first four NFL seasons with the Colts before signing with New York, which released him in March. The move gives Carolina an established starter at linebacker as the club finalizes its 53-man roster ahead of the 2026 season.

What to watch: Watch for the Panthers to formally announce the Okereke signing. Prieskorn, Barrs, Cooks, Davis, Hayes, Malone, Taylor and Chisena are now available on the open market as final cuts continue across the league.