The Carolina Panthers have made a contract offer to Dante Wesley, but it appears the veteran cornerback will explore the free agent market. Wesley's agent, Andy Simms, confirmed Monday the Panthers have offered his client a contract, but added, "It isn't exactly what we're looking for."
Simms said he's hoping the Panthers might up the offer before Friday, but if not his client will explore the free agent market. The Panthers had planned on Wesley being thier No. 4 cornerback, but he was injured early in the year and spent the season on IR.
Also, the Panthers have offered a contract to fullback Brad Hoover and seem to be making progress in talks with receiver Muhsin Muhammad, although nothing is imminent. It's hard to imagine too many teams having much interest in the 35-year-old Muhammad. The Panthers might be smart to wait for the price to come down. There was a report Sunday on www.profootballtalk.com -- albeit a little premature -- that Muhammad is close to signing a deal worth $1.5 million per season. At this point, nothing is done.
The Panthers are also likely to bring back linebacker Terrance Melton, who missed all of last season after tearing up his knee in training camp. Melton has been a mainstay at the stadium this off-season while rehabbing his knee. He's also attended a bunch of team functions and was a guest at Torrence Creek Elementary School in Huntersville two weeks ago. Typically players who are on their way out won't waste their time with team-sponsored appearances.