The team released safety Clayton Isbell in a corresponding move. Ford, soon to be 30 years old, spent the past two seasons in Green Bay. He totaled five interceptions and nine pass breakups across 30 games with the Packers. Ford is a versatile third safety who will slot into a part-time role with the Panthers out of the gate.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports "multiple" teams this offseason tried to trade for Ford, considered a special teams ace, but his $2 million salary proved prohibitive. Look for Ford to sign with another team in the next few days. He could get defensive snaps too, depending on his landing spot. 

Ford was primarily a gunner on special teams with the Eagles, totaling 21 tackles across 351 snaps with that unit the past two seasons. It's another addition to accommodate Jacksonville's lackluster special teams, which coach Urban Meyer has clearly prioritized in improving this offseason.

Ford was unable to practice this week due to the Achilles injury and was already ruled out for Sunday, and now his season comes to an early end. The 25-year-old had six tackles (three solo) in 10 games.