The second day of the free agency signing period passed Saturday without a big-splash signing by the Carolina Panthers, but the team was steadily active as promised.

The Panthers neared agreement on a two-year, $4 million deal with Cleveland cornerback/kick returner Ricardo Colclough, a former second-round pick.

He's a player the Panthers tried to claim him off waivers when he was cut by Pittsburgh on Oct. 30, but Cleveland also put in a claim and won a coin flip for his rights.

His new deal with Carolina likely won't be completed and announced for a few more days.

Also Saturday, the Panthers hosted a visit by Oakland defensive end Tyler Brayton, who is scheduled to visit Indianapolis and possibly Cincinnati before deciding upon a team. According to sources, the Panthers have begun initial contract discussions.

It was a big day for departing Panthers free agent receiver Keary Colbert, who received a three-year, $7.2 million contract from Denver that included a $2.5 million signing bonus.

The Panthers didn't try to retain Colbert, who was generally considered a disappointment after a standout rookie season.

Carolina apparently is not interested in receiver Javon Walker, cut Friday by Denver, despite an internet report to the contrary. A former star in Green Bay, Walker is drawing interest from several teams but there are concerns about his knees.

Earlier, the Panthers visited with veteran defensive tackle Rod Coleman, cut recently by Atlanta. Coleman, with 581/2 sacks, could be a strong addition to the defensive line if he's recovered from injuries.

Coleman's agent, Pat Dye Jr., said talks are continuing with the Panthers, but that Coleman might want to take more visits before signing with a team.

Colclough (5-foot-11, 195 pounds) was drafted by the Steelers 38th overall in 2004 out of Division II Tusculum. However, he never lived up to his promise with the Steelers. He didn't start a game in 31/2 years and totaled 33 tackles and one interception.

Colclough, 25, was also used on special teams, including as a kickoff and punt returner. He averaged 21.7 yards on kickoff returns from 2004-06, including a 63-yarder in 2005.

A native of Sumter, S.C., Colclough fell out of favor with new Steelers coach Mike Tomlin last season. He was inactive every game he was with the Browns last season. With Carolina, he can compete for the No. 3 or No. 4 cornerback position and contribute as a kick returner.

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