Panthers sign C Thomas Austin

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CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Panthers announced they've signed center Thomas Austin to replace Ryan Kalil on the 53-man roster.

Kalil, a three-time Pro Bowl center, was moved to injured reserve after tearing a ligament in his left foot in Carolina's 16-12 loss to Seattle on Sunday.

The 6-foot-4, 308-pound Austin has limited NFL experience, playing in three games for the Houston Texans in 2011 and was on the New England Patriots practice squad earlier this season.

Austin entered the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings in 2010 as an undrafted free agent out of Clemson.

He spent time on the Vikings and Patriots practice squads that season.

Panthers coach Ron Rivera said Wednesday Geoff Hangartner will move to center and start while Garry Williams and Jeff Byers will compete for the right guard spot.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press

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