The Associated Press

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Rookie wide receiver Drew Carter of the Carolina Panthers tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee Wednesday, the third such injury of his career.

The injury came on the first day of the Panthers' minicamp.

Carter, a fifth-round draft pick from Ohio State, injured himself while running during Wednesday's practice. It was the second time Carter has torn his left ACL.

STEELERS: Former All-Pro linebacker Jason Gildon was released Wednesday in a long-expected move that creates $3.65 million of salary cap room for the team.

Gildon, who will be 32 next month, learned weeks ago he would be traded or released. Gildon, the team's all-time sacks leader, was one of the last players remaining on the Steelers' roster from the team that lost to Dallas in the Super Bowl in January 1996.

REDSKINS: Linebacker Jeremiah Trotter, running back Trung Canidate and guard Dave Fiore were cut Wednesday, saving the team about $4.7 million under the salary cap for 2004.

None of the cuts was unexpected. Washington also signed 12-year veteran tight end Fred Baxter, who spent the last two seasons with New England.

RAVENS: Quarterback Kordell Stewart agreed to a one-year contract Wednesday. He will receive the league minimum $760,000 to replace the injured Anthony Wright as the backup to Kyle Boller.

The final details were settled early Wednesday evening, Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome said. Stewart will participate today during the final session of a two-day passing camp.

Return to Bengals front page...