Panthers Sign Mark Jones for KR/PR

In a not so surprising move, the Panthers have added a KR/PR. As reported by the Charlotte Observer, the Panther just signed Mark Jones at least until our receivers corp is back to full strength.

While we didn't know who, anybody that didn't see this move coming must not be a Panther fan. After injuires to Ryne Robinson and Jason Carter, the Panthers had a large need for someone to take on these duties. While it appears his resume may not be the most spectacular it should get us through a few games.Heck we don't even know if Ryne would improve on the end of last season. So in reality this can't really be worse that last year.

As Reported by the Charlotte Observer Blog:

He [Mark Jones] has a 24.8-yard average on 43 career kickoff returns and an 8.7 average on 43 punt returns.

He has yet to break a long return. His longest career kickoff return was 36 yards and his best punt return was a 35-yard gain.

Ryne Robinson has an average kickoff return of 23 yard on 26 attempts and punt return average of 8.7 yards on 30 attempts. He had a long of 60 and 34 yards on kickoff and punt returns respectively.

Personally I find it most interesting that he was cut by our first opponent, San Diego. Although he didn't actually play a game for them, it appears he was only signed during the off season. During 2007 he played for the Tampa Bay Bucs.

Update: It appears the Observer misreported Mark's return numbers. From NFL.com he has had 18 kickoff returns with an average of 24.8 yards, and 117 punt returns with an average of 8.7 yards.