Monday’s news of Jonathan Martin’s imminent retirement made national headlines because of his past. Locally, it was a reminder of how much the Panthers are currently depending on Michael Oher.Martin, who was penciled in behind Oher at left tackle, was unlikely to turn into a Pro Bowler, and there’s no guarantee he would have even made the roster. But the former second-round pick did bring 38 games of pro experience to Carolina. That backup plan was easier to stomach than what remains.
Of the six tackles that will head to Spartanburg this week, only two have taken an NFL snap on the left side: Oher and David Foucault.Oher already was a huge piece of the Panthers’ puzzle. Now his importance is accentuated even further.Fans have a right to be nervous. For what it’s worth, general manager Dave Gettleman isn’t.”One of the things that makes football unique is it’s 11 guys. 11 guys have to do the right thing. Michael is one of 11,” Gettleman said Friday.”Do we believe he has the ability to play that position and play at a high level? Yes. We believe in Michael.”That belief begins with the feeling Oher is over a troublesome toe that cut short his disastrous season with the Titans. The Panthers are also putting a lot of faith in the former Raven’s reunion with offensive line coach John Matsko. But until Oher is out there taking live snaps, say, against Houston’s J.J. Watt in Week 2, it’s impossible to know if he can be a serviceable blindside protector like he was earlier in his career.”Obviously, Tennessee gave him a big bag of money. And you know what, sometimes things don’t work,” Gettleman said. “Not every place you go is the right place for you. It’s about fit, and we believe he’s a very good fit for us.”And if he’s not?Gulp.
Pre-Camping with Dave Gettleman, Monday
Part 1: Cam Newton’s OffseasonPart 2: NegotiationsPart 3: Josh NormanPart 4: Current Salary Cap StatusPart 5: 2016 Comp Picks
Tuesday’s Posting Schedule
1:00 – Michael Oher3:00 – Running Backs4:00 – Defensive ends8:00 – Rookies9:00 – Onto Spartanburg
I really and truly do believe that judging someone in July instead of in August when you actually get to see them play is assinine, although I would really like to see if the Panthers will pursue someone like Jake Long, Xavier Nixon, or Garrett Scott. I know two of the names are relatively unknown but they could be added depth behind Oher. Jake Long’s a long shot since JR likes high character guys but he’s worth a shot at a one year deal. I don’t know though, the pickings are slim at LT.
I really and truly do believe that judging someone in July instead of in August when you actually get to see them play is assinine, although I would really like to see if the Panthers will pursue someone like Jake Long, Xavier Nixon, or Garrett Scott. I know two of the names are relatively unknown but they could be added depth behind Oher. Jake Long’s a long shot since JR likes high character guys but he’s worth a shot at a one year deal. I don’t know though, the pickings are slim at LT.
In Gettleman I trust
In Gettleman I trust