PISCATAWAY, NJ – Rutgers offensive lineman Trohn Carswell has signed a free agent contract with the NFL’s Carolina Panthers. Carswell was one of eight free agents signed by the Panthers on Monday.

Carswell broke into the Scarlet Knights’ starting lineup at left tackle midway through his junior season, and was a starter throughout his senior year. Recognized as a versatile and athletic big man, Carswell was the recipient of the George T. Cronin Trophy following the 2001 season as the team’s Most Improved Player. Carswell displayed his athleticism in the Miami game as a senior, when he hauled in a lateral from QB Ryan Hart in the second quarter and rumbled up field for a 14 yard gain and a first down.

Carswell joins linebacker Gary Brackett as a free agent signee following the conclusion of the NFL Draft (April 26-27). Brackett, last year’s team MVP and leading tackler, signed with the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. In addition, punter Mike Barr was invited to the Washington Redskins’ mini-camp, which will take place at the conclusion of this week. The Scarlet Knights were represented on the first day of the NFL Draft when tight end L.J. Smith was the third player taken at his position in the draft, and the 61st pick overall, as a second round selection of the Philadelphia Eagles.