CHARLOTTE – The Panthers' 2013 draft class is now entirely under contract with the signings of the final two rookies, linebacker A.J. Klein and running back Kenjon Barner.
"We are thrilled to have all of our draft choices under contract," general manager Dave Gettleman said. "A.J.'s versatility is very appealing to us. He has played all three linebacker positions and he will have a chance to help us on special teams. Kenjon has great speed and was a dynamic player on offense and special teams at Oregon."
Klein was selected in the fifth round out of Iowa State after starting three seasons for the Cyclones. Klein finished his college career with 361 tackles and one Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year award. He also recorded five interceptions, four of which were returned for touchdowns.
Klein is expected to provide depth at all three linebacker positions in his first season, in addition to making an impact on several special teams units.
Barner was the Panthers' final draft choice, a sixth-round selection out of Oregon. After waiting in the wings for three seasons, Barner exploded for a huge senior season as the Ducks' lead back in 2012, recording 1,767 yards and 23 touchdowns to earn consensus All-America honors.
The speedster will compete for time in the Panthers' backfield as a complimentary option behind established veterans DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart and Mike Tolbert.
