Panthers Cut CB Lucas

The Cap space strapped Carolina Panthers were forced to release starting CB Ken Lucas, after a trade could not be completed. Lucas had previously vetoed a trade to the Detroit Lions. The release clears up about $2.3 Million.

"We had some teams approach us and we talked to some teams and nothing worked out," general manager Marty Hurney said. "We just thought this was the time to do this. ... Ken's been a very good starter for us for four years."

Lucas was signed away from the Seattle Seahawks to a six-year, $36 million deal in 2005. He started 49 of 50 games for Carolina and had 13 interceptions along with 235 tackles.
Lucas was also known for fierce, trash-talking one-on-one matchups with Smith in practice that boiled over in training camp last season when the Pro Bowl receiver punched Lucas in the face while Lucas was resting on one knee.