The Carolina Panthers have released backup quarterback Chris Weinke according to reports from ESPN.com.

Weinke was a fourth-round draft selection by the Panthers in the 2001 draft. Also, he won the Heisman Trophy in 2000 while playing for Florida State. He started 15 games in his first season when the Panthers finished 1-15. He was finally replaced by quarterback Rodney Peete at the beginning of the 2002 season.