Jaylon Smith Nfl

Jaylon Smith Signs One-Year Deal with Carolina Panthers

Former Steelers Linebacker Finds New Home in NFC South

Smith Set to Bolster Panthers' Defense

Free-agent linebacker Jaylon Smith has agreed to a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers, the team announced on Thursday. Smith, who was released by the Pittsburgh Steelers earlier this month, joins a Panthers defense that ranked 22nd in the NFL last season in points allowed.

Smith had a disappointing season with the Steelers, starting only four games and recording just 31 tackles. However, he is still a talented player with plenty of experience. In 2019, he was named a Pro Bowl alternate and helped the Dallas Cowboys lead the NFL in turnovers forced.

The Panthers are hoping that Smith can return to his old form and provide a boost to their defense. Smith is expected to compete for a starting role alongside Shaq Thompson and Jermaine Carter.

Smith's signing is the latest move in the Panthers' ongoing rebuild under new head coach Matt Rhule. The Panthers have been active in free agency, signing several veteran players to one-year deals. They have also made several key additions to their coaching staff, including the hiring of former Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Gus Bradley.

The Panthers are hoping that these moves will help them improve on their 5-11 record from last season. They are scheduled to open the 2023 season on the road against the Cleveland Browns on September 11.