Panthers Agree To Terms With Hawkinsville’s Charles Johnson

CHARLOTTE, NC – The Carolina Panthers have agreed to a six-year contract with free agent defensive end Charles Johnson worth $72 million. The former Georgia Bulldog is a native of Hawkinsville, Georgia.

Johnson will receive a $30 million signing bonus. The team confirmed the deal Tuesday night and Johnson said he plans to sign the deal on Friday.

Johnson said he was “blown away” by Carolina’s offer and the money persuaded him to choose Carolina over Atlanta and Denver, who also expressed interest.

General manager Marty Hurney, coach Ron Rivera and several members of the defensive staff flew to Miami on Monday night in an effort to make sure Johnson wouldn’t get away.