THURSDAY, 1:57pm: Cason’s visit with the Panthers is now scheduled for tonight, according to Pro Football Talk (via Twitter).
WEDNESDAY, 3:49pm: According to Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer, Cason was scheduled to visit with the Panthers today, but the meeting was canceled amid Cason’s decision to switch to agent Drew Rosenhaus. It’s unclear whether the switch to Rosenhaus affects the seemingly impending deal between Cason and the Panthers, but both sides appear to have interest in rescheduling the visit, tweets Person.
1:10pm: Free agent defensive back Antoine Cason will sign with the Panthers soon, according to Kent Somers of the Arizona Republic (via Twitter). Mike Garafolo of FOX Sports (Twitter link) confirms that the two sides are finalizing a contract that will be signed within the next few days.
Cason, a former first-round pick, saw just 169 defensive snaps for Arizona last season after playing as a full-time starter for the Chargers from 2010 to 2012. Even in limited action for the Cardinals though, the 27-year-old made a number of big plays, recovering three fumbles and grabbing a pair of interceptions, including one for a touchdown. According to Adam Caplan of ESPN.com (via Twitter), Cason has been on the Panthers’ radar “for weeks” and is a good fit for their defensive scheme.
The Panthers have been seeking help at cornerback, having already lost a 2013 starter (Captain Munnerlyn) to Minnesota, and with another of 2013’s key contributors (Drayton Florence) no longer under contract. A report from Garafolo last night indicated that the team was eyeing Cason and Terrell Thomas, and could ultimately sign one or both.