Panthers wide receiver Muhsin Muhammad, one of the most popular players in team history, is expected to announce today that he is retiring from the NFL, the Observer has learned.

The Panthers said a news conference is scheduled for 12:30 p.m.

The Carolina Panthers did not make any attempt to re-sign Muhammad, who is an unrestricted free agent. Muhammad has shown interest in pursuing a broadcasting career.

Muhammad, a two-time Pro-Bowler, was drafted by the Panthers in 1996 in the second round, and spent a couple of seasons with the Chicago Bears before returning to Carolina.

Muhammad played 11 of his 14 NFL seasons with the Panthers. He is Carolina's franchise leader with 589 catches and 9,167 receiving yards; and is tied for Steve Smith for most touchdown receptions (50).