The Carolina Panthers recently acquired Charles Tillman while the Cleveland Browns hope to improve their offensive line by acquiring Rob Housler.
NFL.com reported that Charles Tillman, 34, suffered from a triceps injury which cut his 2014 season short. It is actually the second time he tore his triceps. However, the Carolina Panthers believe that "Peanuts" can still help in their defensive line. His move will reunite him with Ron Rivera.
Chicago Tribune reported that Charles Tillman played with the Chicago Bears for a total of 12 seasons. The cornerback ended his tenure on April 9 this year then agreed to play for one year with the Panthers for around $3 million. Tillman is reportedly deemed as one of the best defensive backs in the history of the Bears. His yards-per-play average was in the top half during most of the years that he played.
After his best years in Chicago, it was expected that Tillman would be leaving the team, especially with the entrance of new general manager Ryan Pace and coach John Fox. The latter two did not show any interest in re-signing Tillman, especially after his recurring triceps injury.
George McCaskey, Bears Chairman, had a lot of good words to say about Tillman. He said, "We are deeply appreciative of how he has represented our team." He added, "When he decides his time on the field has concluded, we look forward to welcoming him back to the Bears family."
According to Tillman, he is still hungry to play and win.
Based on another report by NFL.com, the Cleveland Browns took tight end Rob Housler and signed him for one year at $1.76 million, plus a $750,000 signing bonus.
The Browns have been looking for a tight end since Jordan Cameron transferred to the Miami Dolphins. Cleveland only has Jim Dray and Gary Barnidge, who function as blocking tight ends, so the team requires a pass-catcher. Dray and Barnidge together had 30 catches and 398 yards. The Browns are expected to acquire another tight end at the 2015 NFL Draft.
Housler previously played for the Arizona Cardinals. The 6'5" 250-pound 27-year-old had a good year in 2012 to 2013, garnering 84 catches and 871 yards. However, he only played 15 games in 2014, getting nine interceptions and 129 yards in the process. He is quite fast, dashing 40 yards in 4.46 seconds at the 2011 NFL combine, based on a report by ESPN.
Before signing with the Browns, Housler also visited the Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Falcons and Cincinnati Bengals.