The Carolina Panthers got four important young players under contract for next season on Friday when they tendered punter Michael Palardy, wide receiver Damiere Byrd, offensive lineman Tyler Larsen and tight end Chris Manhertz.
All were exclusive rights free agents, defined by the NFL as players with two or fewer seasons of service time with expiring contracts. The Panthers’ tenders, or contract offers at league-mandated salaries, keep them with the team.
The Panthers had two other exclusive-rights players – defensive lineman Drew Iddings, who was signed to a one-year contract, and offensive lineman Dan France, who was not tendered.