CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The agent for Carolina Panthers linebacker James Anderson says his client has been informed that he's been released by the team.
Brian Mackler, who represents Anderson, confirmed Tuesday his client has been released but did not have any other comment.
Anderson, 29, had signed a five-year, $22 million extension in 2011 with $8.5 million guaranteed. It was one of several big-money extensions handed out by the Panthers in recent offseasons that has put the team in a tight salary-cap situation for 2013.
The move represents only minimal salary cap savings for Carolina because they have to account for the remaining prorated portion of the $7 million signing bonus he received in 2011.
Anderson is the second high-profile Panthers defensive veteran to be released this offseason, joining cornerback Chris Gamble, who was cut last week. Gamble's agent has said his client plans to retire.
In 12 games last season, Anderson registered 73 tackles. In 94 career games with Carolina, he had 454 tackles, eight sacks, five forced fumbles and three interceptions.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.