Muhammad talks to a teammate

The Panthers have turned to a familiar face in their search to find a receiver to pair with Steve Smith.  Muhsin Muhammad has returned to the Panthers after spending the last three seasons with the Chicago Bears.  The 35-year-old Muhammad had only 40 receptions for the Bears last season, but his old Panther teammates made it clear they wanted him to return to Carolina. 

Quarterback Jake Delhomme says he was on the phone with Smith “about 20 minutes” after he learned Muhammad was released by the Bears.   Muhammad, who remains Carolina’s career leader in receptions and receiving yards, believes he has plenty of good football remaining.  He figures to start for the Panthers this season, although newcomer D.J. Hackett could also figure in the mix.