The Carolina Panthers released former All-Pro linebacker Justin Houston on Tuesday, the team announced. Houston, who was in his first year with Carolina, was on injured reserve with a hamstring strain. According to NFL insider Adam Schefter, the linebacker would like to play again this season and is hopeful about joining a playoff contender after his exit from the 2-12 Panthers.
Houston had 9.5 sacks last season in 14 games for the Baltimore Ravens. However, the 34-year-old linebacker has just nine tackles with a half sack this year for Carolina. He signed with the Panthers in the offseason on a one-year deal for $6 million.
The four-time Pro Bowl selectee is in his 13th NFL season. He now has the opportunity to suit up for his fifth franchise.
Houston spent two seasons with the Ravens following two seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, which all came after an eight-year stint with the Kansas City Chiefs where he was one of the most consistent outside linebackers in the NFL.
His time in Kansas City was highlighted by an impressive 2014 season where he led the NFL with 22 sacks, also achieving a career-high 68 tackles in the process. He earned First-team All-Pro honors and the Deacon Jones Award as well following his breakout year.
Houston tallied up 506 tackles, 111.5 sacks, and 19 forced fumbles throughout his first 12 seasons, also tying the NFL all-time record for career safeties with four.
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