Panthers sign pass-rusher Houston to 1-year deal reportedly worth up to $7M
The Carolina Panthers reached an agreement on a one-year deal with veteran pass-rusher Justin Houston, the club announced Sunday.
Houston's deal is worth up to $7 million with $6 million guaranteed, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
The 34-year-old collected 9.5 sacks, seven tackles for loss, and 17 QB hits in 14 games with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022.
Houston joins an edge rusher group that features Pro Bowler Brian Burns, Yetur Gross-Matos, and 2023 third-round pick DJ Johnson, among others.
Carolina's pass-rushers combined for just 35 sacks in 2022, tied for seventh-fewest in the league. Burns alone accounted for 12.5 quarterback takedowns.
The Panthers are transitioning from a 4-3 to a 3-4 base defense under new defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero. Houston's experience playing outside linebacker in similar schemes should prove valuable as the Panthers look to develop their young talent.
The four-time Pro Bowler owns 111.5 career sacks over his 12-year career, including an NFL-best 22 in 2014.