Panthers release starting CB Gamble in cap move

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — The Panthers have released starting cornerback Chris Gamble in a move that will get them under this year’s NFL salary cap.

By releasing Gamble the Panthers will save $7.9 million under this year’s salary cap. He becomes a free agent.

The Panthers selected Gamble with the 28th overall pick in the 2004 draft out of Ohio State.

Gamble has played in 123 career regular season games with 117 starts and is the franchise’s leader with 27 career interceptions, including two returned for touchdowns. His 117 career regular season starts are the most by a cornerback in franchise history.

Gamble missed most of last season with a torn labrum in his shoulder.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera says Gamble “always handled things the right way and we wish him the best.”