The Carolina Panthers remain very much in the mix to sign free agent wide receiver D.J. Hackett. The Panthers are still talking numbers with Hackett's representatives, although nothing has been completed.

   Seattle, Tampa Bay and Washington are also interested. One source close to the situation said Carolina is Hackett's top choice if he leaves Seattle.

   Look for a decision in the next couple of days, but right now things look pretty good and this is no time for the Panthers to try to low-ball a guy. If they want the man, then pay the man and get it done.

   Hackett would be an immediate upgrade for the Panthers and have a good chance to start right away opposite Steve Smith, even with the presence of Muhsin Muhammad and Dwayne Jarrett.