Charlotte, N.C. (June 11)-----Former San Jose State University wide receiver and return specialist Michael Avila is one of two players signed to a free agent contract by the Carolina Panthers.

            For Avila, it will be a return to the National Football League team. Following the 2012 NFL draft, Avila was an undrafted player invited to the Panthers for a tryout, but was not signed to a contract.

            During his San Jose State career, the 5-foot-9 native of Monterey, Calif., played in 32 games between the 2007 and 2011 seasons. His most productive season was in 2008 when he caught 18 passes for 152 yards.

            Last year, most of Avila's contributions were on special teams as a kickoff returner. He was second on the team with his 21.6 yard average.

            Avila came to San Jose State after a stellar football and track career at Seaside (Calif.) High where he was the Monterey Herald's 2007 Male Athlete of the Year.

            Avila is the fifth senior from the 2011 San Jose State team to sign a free agent contract. Earlier, teammates Duke Ihenacho (Denver), Mohamed Marah (San Diego), Peyton Thompson (Atlanta) and Fred Koloto (New York Jets) signed as an undrafted free agent.