National Football League

Panthers sign free agent G Mike Pollak from Colts

Published Mar. 22, 2012 6:12 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Carolina Panthers have signed free agent guard Mike Pollak to a one-year deal.

The team announced the move Thursday.

Pollak played in 58 games, including 41 starts, for the Indianapolis Colts and can help fill the void after left guard Travelle Wharton was released earlier this offseason in a salary cap move.

Pollak, a four-year veteran, provided protection that allowed Peyton Manning to lead the league in yards passing in 2010 and rank second in 2009. The Colts allowed the fewest sacks in the league both seasons.

Panthers general manager Marty Hurney says Pollak is ''a very physical, smart, experienced veteran guard who will come in and compete for a starting position.''

Also, defensive back R.J. Stanford has signed his one-year exclusive rights contract.