Carolina finalized its 53-man roster Tuesday, but former Alabama safety Robert Lester didn’t make the cut. He along with defensive back Melvin White and wide receiver Jarrett Boykin all were released. Lester signed with the Panthers in 2013 as an undrafted rookie free agent.

Lester was ball-hawking safety at Alabama from 2009-12. He totaled 141 career tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 14 interceptions, a forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.

He was a two-time Southeastern Conference champion (2009, 2012) and a three-time national champion (2009, 2011, 2012). Lester has 21 tackles and three interceptions in the NFL.

Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine and SB Nation. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @ESPN_Future.

Stephen M. Smith

Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a seasoned writer that has covered Alabama football for Touchdown Alabama Magazine since 2009. Smith has extensive knowledge within the program, which has made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Throughout his career, Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.