Cornerback Ken Lucas, who made national news when he fielded a punch in the face from receiver Steve Smith last summer, was released by the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday after the team unsuccessfully attempted to trade him.
Lucas started 49 games in four seasons for the Panthers and recorded 13 interceptions, but his play tailed off in 2008 and he no longer deserved such a big salary. Lucas was due to cost more than $10 million under the salary cap his release will free up about $2.37 million under the NFL salary cap. Lucas will still count $8.33 million against this year's salary cap based on his remaining acceleration balance of his past signing bonuses.
The Panthers had been close to trading Lucas to Detroit a week ago but Lucas nixed the deal because he didn't want to play for the Lions, who finished 0-16 last year.
As of now, the assumption is Richard Marshall would step in and start opposite Chris Gamble. Marshall has played well for the Panthers for the most part over the past three years, but struggled in the second half of last season. Look for C.J. Wilson to assume to No. 3 cornerback spot for now, although the team could bring in a veteran corner.
Lucas earned respect of teammates and fans for the way he handled an ugly training camp incident last summer involving wide receiver Steve Smith.
Smith broke Lucas' nose with a punch to the head, resulting in a two-game suspension for the team's star receiver. Lucas was quick to forgive Smith, allowing the Panthers to move on with their season. There are many who credit Lucas with helping unite as a team, ultimately helping the Panthers win the NFC South with a 12-4 record.
Prior to signing with Carolina, Lucas played four seasons with Seattle after the Seahawks selected him in the second round of the 2001 NFL draft following his college career at the University of Mississippi.
