Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy seeks NFL reinstatement

Carolina Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy is seeking immediate reinstatement from the NFL after a federal judge cleared the way for Peterson’s return to the league.

Hardy’s agent Drew Rosenhaus said, “We are working very closely with the NFLPA on this process,” adding that he hopes his client will be reinstated soon.

Like Peterson, Hardy spent the majority of last season on the commissioner’s exempt list, which prevented him from playing.

Hardy was convicted last summer on two counts of domestic violence. He appealed and had both charges dismissed Feb. 9 when his accuser couldn’t be located to testify.

The NFL says it is reviewing Hardy’s case.

NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the ruling on Peterson is “irrelevant” to Hardy’s case. Hardy will become an unrestricted free agent March 10.

NFL moves

The Atlanta Falcons have released running back Steven Jackson, who in two seasons with the team couldn’t recapture his 1,000-yard form that made him one of the league’s top backs with the St. Louis Rams. … Tennessee left tackle Michael Roos is retiring from the NFL after playing 10 seasons and 148 games with the Titans. …

The Arizona Cardinals have re-signed tackle Bradley Sowell and signed free-agent cornerback Damond Smith. Both are on one-year contracts. … The Rams have released defensive tackle Kendall Langford, who lost his starting spot to rookie Aaron Donald last season. The move frees up $6 million in salary cap space heading into free agency. … The Jacksonville Jaguars have released veteran cornerback Will Blackmon, giving younger players more opportunity at the position. …

The Kansas City Chiefs waived veteran tight end Anthony Fasano, freeing up about $2 million in salary cap space that they could use to keep All-Pro linebacker Justin Houston.