Panthers sign 10, including quarterback P.J. Walker

CHARLOTTE — The Panthers began restocking the roster for the 2022 season Monday, signing 10 of their current players to deals for the new year. They signed quarterback P.J. Walker and fullback Giovanni Ricci to one-year extensions. Both were set to become exclusive rights free agents, which means they weren't able to negotiate with other teams. Walker and Sam Darnold are the only quarterbacks on the roster at the moment, though they've been upfront about wanting to add to the position. Ricci began as a tight end, but made the transition to fullback this year, and was a valuable special teams player. They also signed eight of their practice squad players to future deals, which will bind them to the team for the coming season. That group includes running back Spencer Brown, cornerback Madre Harper, defensive lineman Frank Herron, offensive linemen Mike Horton and Aaron Monteiro, wide receivers Aaron Parker and C.J. Saunders, and tight end Colin Thompson. That gives the Panthers 51 players under contract for 2022 at the moment. They have 22 unrestricted free agents, who will be able to sign with anyone when the league year opens on March 16.