The Carolina Panthers bucked up in a big way on Tuesday when they dug deep to retain the services of defensive end Charles Johnson.
Now, they’ve spent big again to ensure DeAngelo Williams can stay right where he wants to be – in Charlotte, N.C. The Panthers have come to terms on a $43 million, five-year contract with the club’s top running back. The deal includes $21 million guaranteed, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Johnson and Williams were the two most pressing free agents the club needed to re-sign for new head coach Ron Rivera and his staff. Running the ball effectively – and the Panthers are two years removed from having two 1,100-yard backs – will be significant as the team works to bring along first-round draft pick Cam Newton.
Williams maintained all along he wanted to return to the Panthers although the Denver Broncos were very interested with former coach John Fox and the New York Giants were also rumored to have interest.
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Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune