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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Anthony Rizzuti

Justin Houston reveals why he signed with Panthers

A four-time Pro Bowler and one of the game’s most prolific pass rushers, Justin Houston probably had a few destinations available to him this summer. But there’s a big reason why he ultimately landed with the Carolina Panthers.

The 34-year-old reported to Spartanburg, S.C. on Tuesday to make his new one-year deal an official one. When talking to reporters after taking care of business, he was asked why he decided on the Panthers.

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“Coach Frank,” Houston replied. “It was simple. Coach Frank called. I knew right then—as soon as he called, I hung up the phone and told my wife we goin’ to Carolina. It was an easy decision.”

Houston played a pair of seasons under head coach Frank Reich back in Indianapolis. There, between 2019 and 2020, he recorded 60 total tackles and 19.0 sacks over 32 outings.

The highly-regarded veteran was then asked why he holds Reich in such high regard himself.

“I trust him,” he added. “He’s a stand-up guy. What you see is what you get, and he’s gonna be straight up, forward with you. He’s a guy that you can count on. And like I said, the biggest thing is trust. I wanted somebody I can trust.”

Now, the Panthers will trust Houston and his $7 million deal to pay dividends for a budding defense this season.

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