By Steve Behr

sports@wataugademocrat.com

CHARLOTTE - The Carolina Panthers released former Appalachian State receiver Dexter Jackson Tuesday to get down to the league mandated 75-man roster.

Jackson was signed by the Panthers late last season and spent his time on the practice squad. He was picked up after being released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Jackson was a key part of Appalachian State's three national championships. He scored a touchdown just before halftime on a pass from Armanti Edwards that gave the Mountaineers a 28-7 lead against Delaware in the 2007 final.

Jackson also scored two touchdowns in Appalachian State's 34-32 victory over Michigan, including a 68-yard catch-and-run that answered the Wolverines' first touchdown.

The Panthers also placed receiver Wallace Wright on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Wright, signed away from the New York Jets, was expected to contribute to the Panthers' special teams and was making strides in being part of the team's offense.

"He's worked very hard this offseason and was having a tremendous camp," Panthers coach John Fox said. "He'll require surgery on his shoulder; that's why he hit the IR list. Of course we're disappointed, and so is he."

Carolina also released Oliver Young, placed defensive end Hilee Taylor on injured reserve (knee) and linebacker Thomas Davis (knee) on the reserve-PUP (physically unable to perform) list. Davis must sit out at least the first six weeks of the season before he can return.