Panthers Add Fonoti
By John White
The Carolina Panthers added guard Toniu Fonoti on Tuesday according to the Charlotte Observer.
"The Carolina Panthers have signed free agent guard Toniu Fonoti, a former second-round draft choice who has been in and out of the league in recent seasons because of weight problems.The Panthers hope Fonoti (6-foot-4, 350 pounds), can compete for playing time at guard.San Diego picked him in the second round of the 2002 draft. He started 14 games for the Chargers as a rookie, then spent the next season on injured reserve. In 2004, he started 16 games as San Diego went 12-4. Sports Illustrated named him first team All-Pro.After another injury and with his weight reportedly up to about 390, the Chargers traded him to Minnesota in 2005. He didn’t last with the Vikings. Atlanta signed him last March, but released him during training camp."
Honestly, Fonoti might not even be on the roster in late August. But he’s a big body the team can add to the mix to battle for a job. If he can keep his weight down to a reasonable level and stay motivated, he could be a decent addition. The problem here is that he’s already worn out his welcome in three NFL cities.
Maybe the rotund Fonoti can make a contribution.