CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers were hoping defensive tackle Frank Kearse (knee) and kick returner/receiver Joe Adams (calf) cleared waivers after both were waived/injured on Tuesday, and they did.

Both went on the team's injured reserve list.

Carolina was most worried that Adams wouldn't clear. The fourth-round pick in 2012 was listed as the backup kick and punt returner. He returned nine kickoffs for 208 yards and 11 punts for 127 yards last season.

Kearse started four games last season and played in eight a year ago.