CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) - The Panthers have announced that Ernie Accorsi will serve as a consultant during their search for a new general manager.

Accorsi, 71, has been the the GM for the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants and has served as a consultant to other NFL teams in their search for general managers. He serves as chairman of the NFL's General Manager Committee.

Accorsi first met Panthers owner Jerry Richardson when Richardson played for the Baltimore Colts.

Accorsi says ``I have a very high regard for Mr. Richardson and look for Mr. Richardson and look forward to providing any help that I can to him and the organization in their search for a new general manager.''

The Panthers fired long-time general manager Marty Hurney on Oct. 22.