Adam Schefter of NFL Network reports that the Carolina Panthers have signed defensive tackle Damione Lewis to a new three-year contract.

Lewis joined the Panthers in 2006, signing a two-year deal.  He earned a base salary of $1.2 million last season.

A first-round pick of the Rams in 2001, Lewis has become a backup in Carolina.  He started two games in 2007, and recorded 3.5 sacks.

The free-agency period opens on February 29.  Expect more deals like this to be reached over the next few weeks.