Updated

Coach Ron Rivera says the Panthers have released veteran wide receiver Jason Avant and placed starting right tackle Nate Chandler on injured reserve with a right knee injury.

Rivera said the team has signed wide receiver De'Andre Presley from the practice squad and have activated fullback Mike Tolbert from the injured reserve/designated to return list.

Avant was Carolina's third receiver this season and caught 21 passes for 201 yards and one touchdown.

Rivera said the release of Avant was made to give rookie Philly Brown to get more playing time. Brown caught a 47-yard touchdown pass in Carolina's 19-17 loss to Atlanta on Sunday.

Chandler started all 11 games at right tackle this season for the Panthers.

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