The Carolina Panthers are bringing back their sack leader.
According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the team is set to sign outside linebacker Eku Leota to their practice squad. The second-year defender, despite being the only Panther with at least one sack this season, was waived on Tuesday.
In addition to the team-leading production, albeit just a single takedown, Carolina’s decision to temporarily cut ties seemed a bit puzzling considering Leota’s standout summer. He was also just one of four outside linebackers on the current roster—which includes veterans and former first-round picks Jadeveon Clowney and Charles Harris as well as 2023 third-rounder DJ Johnson.
Leota, who has appeared in 10 games for Carolina since last year, is now the third player to join the team’s practice squad today. The Panthers also signed back tight end Jordan Matthews and safety Russ Yeast, who has played all three of his NFL seasons with the Los Angeles Rams.
