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2013 NFL free agency: Mike Mitchell and Ted Ginn Jr. visit Panthers

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Ralph Freso

The Carolina Panthers are looking for more veteran depth.

In search of more help from veterans, the Carolina Panthers hosted visits with Oakland Raiders' safety Mike Mitchell and San Francisco 49ers' kick returner Ted Ginn Jr. According to Aaron Wilson, no deals are imminent.

What's most surprising about these moves is that neither formerly played for the San Diego Chargers or Chicago Bears. That's not a joke. It has been rare under Ron Rivera to see the organization branch out from well-trodden ground, meaning these players are more likely those targeted by Dave Gettleman.

The 25-year-old Mitchell has only nine starts in his NFL career. His career high 51 tackles came in 2010, and has been used in different packages as part of Oakland's rotation. This would be a depth/upside pick, and shouldn't be assumed to challenge for a starting position, provided he's signed.

Ted Ginn Jr. is more interesting. At this point it's clear what he is -- a zero in the passing game, it's dangerous to assume he can offer anything on offense. However, he's an excellent kick returner, and would be a huge upgrade over Kealoha Pilares. It's not that Pilares is bad, but Ginn has an established history of success as both a kick and punt returner.

Neither would move the needle, but both would add solid talent to a team lacking -- provided they're willing to settle for one year deals.

                                                                                                                                                                                                               

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