Panthers release Brandon Boykin
The Carolina Panthers announced the release of cornerback Brandon Boykin on Monday.
Boykin signed a one-year deal with Carolina in March, and was expected to see significant action as the team's slot cornerback.
The move by the Panthers is surprising considering their lack of veteran depth at the position following the loss of Josh Norman in free agency.
Boykin, however, wasn't shocked by the move:
Lol NFL does not surprise me anymore.. Business is crazy. On to the next.
— Brandon Boykin (@BrandonBoykin2) May 16, 2016
He was drafted in the fourth round by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2012 and played well in limited opportunities over the next three seasons. At the start of the 2015 campaign, he was traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers, with whom he was expected to make a big impact.
However, he struggled to get onto the field and was allowed to hit the open market this offseason.
The Panthers will likely move forward with one of their three rookies - James Bradberry, Daryl Worley, and Zack Sanchez - in a larger role.
Carolina also announced the release of defensive back Ras-I Dowling and wide receiver Jenson Stoshak.