>>Panthers Sign CB Tillman

The Panthers signed free-agent cornerback Charles Tillman to a one-year contract.

Financial terms were not announced Thursday.

The 6-foot-2, 198-pound Tillman spent his previous 12 seasons in the league with the Chicago Bears, where he was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2011 and 2012. He has started 152 games during his career, but triceps injuries have limited him to 10 games the past two seasons.

Tillman, 34, previously played under Panthers coach Ron Rivera and assistant head coach/secondary Steve Wilks in Chicago.

Tillman leads active defensive backs with 41 forced fumbles and is fourth in interceptions (36) and second with interception returns for touchdowns (eight).

>>Steelers Safety Polamalu Calling It Career

Pittsburgh Steelers great Troy Polamalu has apparently decided to retire after 12 seasons as one of the premier safeties in the NFL.

The news was first reported by the Uniontown Herald-Standard late Thursday night.

Polamalu, 34, played his entire career with the Steelers after they selected him with the 16th overall pick in the 2003 draft. He was selected to eight Pro Bowls and was a five-time All-Pro, the last coming in 2011.

The USC product helped the Steelers win two Super Bowls and finished with 32 interceptions, 14 forced fumbles, 12 sacks and five defensive touchdowns.

>>Steelers RB Facing Suspension To Start 2015 Season

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Le'Veon Bell is reportedly facing a three-game suspension for violating the NFL's substance- abuse policy.

NFL.com and ESPN both reported that Bell has been told of his penalty and has decided to appeal. The media outlets also said Bell will also be fined an additional game check.

Bell was arrested last August in a Pittsburgh suburb and was charged with possession of marijuana and driving under the influence. He was admitted into a program for first-time offenders in February as part of a plea agreement.

If he completes the program, the charges will be dropped.