CHARLOTTE -- The Carolina Panthers were impressed with kickoff specialist Rhys Lloyd and have given him an opportunity to earn a roster spot next season.

Lloyd signed a two-year contract with the Panthers this week and will attempt to earn one of 53 precious roster spots with the team in training camp. Lloyd only played in one game for the Panthers, that coming against Tampa Bay in Week 17. He kicked off six times, recording two touchbacks. That matched the combined total of John Kasay and Jason Baker in the previous 15 games.

The move shouldn't be construed as a lack of faith in Kasay, 38, who has one year left on his contract. Kasay, the last remaining member of the original Panthers expansion team in 1995, was very good on field goals last season, converting 24 of 28 attempts.

But Lloyd could help the Panthers improve their field position on kickoffs if he can make the roster.

Lloyd was an exclusive rights free agent, which meant he could only negotiate with the Panthers.