The Carolina Panthers signed the last of
their eight draft picks Saturday, agreeing to terms with linebacker
Dan Morgan and Heisman Trophy winner Chris Weinke.
ESPN.com's John Clayton reports that Morgan will sign a five-year deal worth $8.75 million, which includes a $5.4 million signing bonus with $4.1 million given this year and the remaining $1.3 million in a second-year option. As part of the deal, there is a $1.5 million escalator in the last year of the contract based on performance and playing incentives.
Morgan, the first-round pick from Miami, and Weinke, the former
Florida State quarterback selected in the fourth round, are
expected to sign the deals when rookies report to camp Sunday.
"It's a positive start to training camp to have everyone aboard
and expected to be in on time," coach George Seifert said.
Morgan was the 11th overall pick. The first player to win the
Butkus, Nagurski and Bednarik awards in the same season, he's
expected to start at outside linebacker this season.
"I'm real excited about getting things started on the right
foot," Morgan said. "It's a good situation and very beneficial
when you are able to get to camp on time."
Weinke, who is 29 and a year older than starting quarterback
Jeff Lewis, is expected to begin his career as a backup.
The Panthers start training camp Sunday in Spartanburg, S.C. The
first practice with the entire team is scheduled for Thursday.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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