Just got back from the press conference at Bank of America Stadium where Muhsin Muhammad was re-introduced to the media.
Not much has changed.
Muhammad still looks the same, and for guy about to turn 35 he appears in great shape.
"I think it does feel good to be back in Charlotte and to play for the Panthers," Muhammad said. "I'm looking forward to the potential that we have here and getting back on the field with Steve (Smith) and Jake (Delhomme) and getting things going."
Muhammad said he never expected to return to Charlotte after signing a six-year contract with Chicago back in 2005.
But now he's eager to break 10,000 yards receiving for his career and said that he hopes one day owner Jerry Richardson will construct a statue of him outside of Bank of America Stadium. But Muhammad said his first goal is to bring a Super Bowl championship to Charlotte.
What remains unclear is where Muhammad fits in the offense.
Unless the Panthers add a free agent receiver, he will likely head into camp as the No. 2 receiver ahead of Dwayne Jarrett. But obviously, the Panthers are hoping Jarrett can develop into a starting receiver because they view him as a long-term option.
"Muhsin knows our team and is still familiar with anumber of our coaches and we know what he can do," head coach John Fox said in a statement. "He is a tough player who plays a physical style that we value. It's good to have him back with us."
Muhammad said he's fine with whatever role the teams gives him.
Oh, by the way, Muhammad will be wearing No. 87 after striking a deal with tight end Jeff King, who wore that number last season for the Panthers. Muhammad said one of the first phone calls he made upon signing was to King to ask him for the number.
"Could you see me in anything else?" Muhammad joked.
In his three seasons with the Bears, Muhammad, 34, started 47 of the 48 games he played and posted 164 receptions for 2,183 yards and 12 touchdowns. He registered 40 catches for 570 yards and three touchdowns last year prior to being released by Chicago on February 19. Muhammad also played in four postseason contests, including Super XL against Indianapolis.
"It's great to have Muhsin back," general manager Marty Hurney said. "He is not only an excellent player on the field but a leader who brings a mental and physical toughness. He came into the NFL as a Panther, and we are thrilled he is back with us."
Check back for more in a little while, folks...