Defensive Curse of the Panthers Strikes Godfrey

Make that three defensive players on Carolina’s roster out with injuries. Charles Godfrey, Carolina’s starting free safety, is also sitting the sidelines this week after breaking his hand in last weekend’s exhibition game against the Miami Dolphins, leaving another gaping hole in the team’s defense. While Godfrey, a third-round pick in the ‘08 draft, has already undergone surgery and could make a return anytime after the start of the regular season, the Panthers have already taken action to cover his position, signing veteran free safety Kevin Kaesviharn in his absence.

Kaesviharn, an eight-year NFL veteran who’s spent his last two years in the league with the New Orleans Saints, joins the Panthers in part because Charles Godfrey’s backup safety Nate Shelly is sidelined with a knee injury, and his new spot on Carolina’s roster led to wide receiver Jason Carter getting the boot to make room for Kaesviharn. Now that Carter is out of the picture, Kenneth Moore and Ryne Robinson will vie for the Panthers’ No. 4 receiver position behind Steve Smith, Muhsin Muhammad and Dwayne Jarrett. As for Godfrey, he’s listed as “day-to-day” right now but could be back for Carolina’s season opener, though he’ll likely have to wear a “club” on his injured hand.

To get Carolina Panthers tickets, go to StubHub.