Panthers Sign LB Krys Barnes

Krys Barnes has found his latest NFL opportunity. The veteran linebacker signed with the Panthers on Sunday, per a team announcement.

Barnes operated as a starter during his first two seasons with the Packers, reaching 80 tackles on both occasions. His was limited to only six games and a reduced role in 2022, however, and the former undrafted free agent moved on after the campaign. Barnes had been with the Cardinals for the past two years.

In Arizona, the 27-year-old saw time on defense but his largest workload came about through special teams. Barnes totaled 513 third phase snaps, and it would come as no surprise if he were to find himself in a similar situation in Carolina. The UCLA product will spend the remainder of training camp, along with the preseason, attempting to carve out a roster spot for himself.

The Panthers elected not to retain Shaq Thompson this offseason, ending his 10-year run with the organization. More recently, Carolina released fellow linebacker Josey Jewell as he continues to recover from a concussion. The loss of those two will leave the Panthers short on experience, although free agent addition Christian Rozeboom is in line to take on a starting role. Barnes will likely be counted on as a core special teamer, but with 30 starts to his name he could step into a defensive role if needed.

In a corresponding move, the Panthers waived linebacker Tuasivi Nomura. The Fresno State product was among the team’s UDFA class, but he is now set to depart after spending the spring and part of training camp in Carolina. Presuming no team puts in a claim, Nomura will become a free agent.