Bickett Joins Panthers

Duane Bickett, an unrestricted free agent and former Pro Bowl linebacker, agreed to contract terms with the Carolina Panthers.

Bickett appeared in 15 games last year for Seattle, mostly on passing downs, and is expected to be used in similar situations with the Panthers.

Dan Marino’s new three-year contract includes a no-trade clause and a signing bonus of $5.8 million, according to a published report. The clause will defuse speculation that Dolphins coach Jimmy Johnson wanted to trade Marino.

The Pittsburgh Steelers signed free-agent fullback Steve Avery.

The Detroit Lions released linebacker Mike Johnson, a move necessitated by the re-signing of Pro Bowl center Kevin Glover.