Former Saints safety Jairus Byrd signs with Panthers

Former Saints safety Jairus Byrd has signed with the division rival Carolina Panthers, the team announced on Tuesday.

An injury to Panthers free safety Kurt Coleman created an opportunity for Byrd to get back into the NFL.

Byrd was released by the Saints in February, three years into a six-year deal that included $28 million in guarantees.

Knee and back injuries took a lot out of Byrd, who made just three interceptions in his three seasons with New Orleans after a stellar start to his career including three Pro Bowl appearances with the Buffalo Bills.