The Carolina Panthers, who began free agency quietly, finally are making some noise.
They’ve signed veteran cornerback Drayton Florence and re-signed backup quarterback Derek Anderson.
Although Florence is 32 and started only three games with Detroit last season, he at least gives the Panthers some instant experience at cornerback. The Panthers recently released veteran Chris Gamble. Florence likely will compete with youngsters Josh Norman and Josh Thomas for the No. 2 and 3 cornerback spots. But it still is likely the Panthers will look for a true No. 1 cornerback in the draft or later in free agency.
In re-signing Anderson to a one-year deal, the Panthers kept continuity in their quarterback situation. Cam Newton clearly is the franchise quarterback, but Anderson has been his backup the past two seasons. Anderson’s return probably means Jimmy Clausen is headed for his third straight year as the No. 3 quarterback after starting much of his rookie year.
