The Carolina Panthers acquired free safety Chris Harris from the Chicago Bears in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. Harris is entering his third season and had experience starting at both safety positions during his time in Chicago. Harris has recorded five interceptions in his career, not including one that he had in the Super Bowl last season against the Indianapolis Colts.

"According to our scouts and coaches he's an instinctive player, and we feel he can come in here and compete," said Panthers general manager Marty Hurney.

The Panthers will expect Harris to step in right away as the team's starting strong safety alongside Mike Minter. Nate Salley, who previously was No. 1 on the depth chart at the position, injured his right knee during Wednesday's practice and is listed as day to day. Harris, a sixth-round pick from 2005, was no longer needed by the Bears since they had so much depth at the position already.

"I think we're fortunate the Bears have a real surplus at that position," Hurney said. "Chris is a guy that we feel can come in here, compete and help us."