CHARLOTTE – The Panthers announced they’ve signed safety Robert Lester from the practice squad and placed veteran safety Charles Godfrey on injured reserve with a torn Achilles tendon.

Godfrey was injured in Carolina’s 24-23 loss to Buffalo on Sunday.

Lester, an undrafted rookie from Alabama, signed with the Panthers in May but was waived during final cuts. He was later re-signed by the Panthers to the practice squad.

He is likely to serve as a backup safety when the Panthers host the New York Giants on Sunday.

Lester was a key figure in Alabama’s defense, starting 40 of 48 games and posting 14 interceptions while helping the Crimson Tide to three BCS national championships.