Ed Johnson has been signed for I year by the Carolina Panthers on Wednesday. Ron Meeks, the defensive coordinator of Carolina will be reunited with the 296 pound, 6 feet tall Johnson after 2007 when they were together in Indianapolis.

Johnson was arrested in 2008 for possessing marijuana. He was also suspended of school and after that also from a bowl game.

Marty Hurney, general manager of Carolina Panthers, gave a statement that they have done a deep research before signing Ed Johnson.

Johnson will be covering the place for Maake Kemoeatu who is suffering a ruptured Achillis’ tendon. Last season, Kemoeatu was replaced by Hollis Thomas for the rest of the season.

There are speculations that Hollis Thomas may not be re-signed for the 2010 season. There is also uncertainty over the rest of the squad for the 2010 season.

The Panthers have still not made a decision whether they will be signing Julius Peppers for $20.1 million before February 25th.

Tyler Brayton, the defender will also be released from the contract this season.

Tags: carolina panthers, Ed Johnson, marty hurney, ron meeks, tyler brayton