If Jake Delhomme gets injured this season, the Panthers don't want to worry about their backup situation. The Carolina Panthers signed the former No. 1 overall pick in the draft, David Carr, to a two-year deal on Friday. Carr was released by the Houston Texans about a month ago.

"It's a case where we were obviously looking for someone to come in back up Jake and the opportunity to get a quarterback the caliber of David in free agency is unique," said Panthers general manager Marty Hurney. "We thought it was a good situation and a good opportunity for us."

Carr had started for the Texans the past five years, but two statistics stood out during his time with the team: 65 interceptions and 249 sacks. Carr never really performed horrible as an individual, but the Texans' offensive line was never of a quality standard. The Texans traded for quarterback Matt Schaub before they parted ways with Carr. The Panthers tried to sign Carr earlier in the week, but Carr left to visit Seattle while the Panthers also interviewed quarterback Joey Harrington.

"He met everybody and met Jake and I think he felt comfortable," Hurney said. "You never know what happens when he leaves without a contract. But we felt good about him I think he felt good about us and he made the decision to come here."

Last year, the Panthers' playoff hopes were ruined when Delhomme missed three games due to a sprained thumb. Backup quarterback Chris Weinke threw two touchdowns and four interceptions during that span, compiling a 1-2 record. The Panthers finished 8-8 on the season after many had picked them to reach the Super Bowl.

"We made it clear and he knows that Jake Delhomme is our starting quarterback," Hurney said. "I think it was important for him to come to a winning organization and a place where he thinks has a chance to win. He knows that Jake is our starter. Every player wants to play, but he knows the role he's coming into."

Overall, the signing of Carr is the biggest move that the Panthers have made thus far in the offseason.