The Carolina Panthers have cut their starting safety from the 2013 season, Robert Lester, as part of their roster cutdown ahead of the new campaign.

The 26-year-old played 12 games for the Panthers last season and recorded 21 tackles and three interceptions for the club as they reached the post-season.

However, his time with Ron Rivera's side has ended after just one season with the club after he failed to make the roster for the 2014 campaign.

The Panthers also released Josh Johnson, Chris Scott, Denicos Allen, Carrington Byndom, Derek Dennis, James Dockery, Adarius Glanton, Tavarres King, Marcus Lucas, Andrew McDonald, Tom Nelson, Drake Nevis, Darrin Reaves, Micanor Regis, D.J. Smith, Casey Walker, Michael Zordich, Kevin Hughes, Mike McNeill and Anderson Russell.