A signing like Gino Gradkowski is Dave Gettleman's MO.

While other teams hand out huge checks after Wednesday's free agency kickoff, the Carolina Panthers' general manager is looking to fill holes with guys you may not have heard of.

Gradkowski, the younger brother of career backup quarterback Bruce Gradkowski, inked a three-year deal Thursday, giving the Panthers valuable depth and versatility on the offensive line.

“He gives us depth at center and guard,” coach Ron Rivera told the team website. “You feel very secure that if something were to happen, you can plug him in and not lose everything. It’s very much like with Fernando (Velasco) last year when something happened with Kalil, he had to come in and start the Indianapolis game. We believe that’s what Gradkowski can do for us.”

The Ravens, who took Gradkowski in the fourth round of the 2012 draft, traded him to Denver last April. After the Broncos had released him in final cuts, the Panthers tried to claim him, but the Falcons were ahead in the waiver wire pecking order.

Gradkowski played three games in Atlanta last year, making one start.