Panthers general manager Marty Hurney did not appear confident Friday night that a deal would get done anytime soon with first-round draft pick Jon Beason, the 25th player selected in this year’s NFL draft.
"We’re not close. I would say we’re miles apart," Hurney said.
Beason’s agent, Michael Huyghue, did not immediately return phone calls seeking comment last night.
Beason, from the University of Miami, would be the first Carolina rookie to holdout since offensive lineman Bruce Nelson missed one day of practice before joining the team in 2003. But given how far apart the two sides appear to be, this has the potential of being a lengthy holdout. The Panthers have two practices Saturday.
"I think it’s always disappointing for everybody because I don’t think anyone wins in a holdout situation," Hurney said.
It’s surprising that the two sides can’t agree on a contract, especially given that several of the players around Beason’s draft slot have already agreed to deals.
Earlier in the day, the Panthers signed both second-round draft picks -- wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett and center Ryan Kalil. Hurney credited assistant Rob Rogers with getting those contract done.
"The whole idea here is get your draft choices here on time and work toward a common goal," Hurney said.
To make room on the roster, the Panthers waived wide receiver Julius McClellan from North Carolina Central and defensive tackle Jordan Carstens, who failed a physical. There's a chance the Panthers could bring Carstens back if he beats his ongoing battle with kidney disease.
The Carolina Panthers likely have a training camp holdout on their hands.