Carolina Panthers Greg Olsen has no plans of retirement
Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen plans to return next season.
Greg Olsen has been nothing short of outstanding since joining the Carolina Panthers via trade prior to the 2011 season. The first tight end in league history to record three consecutive 1,000 yard receiving seasons, Olsen was also a three time Pro Bowl nominee.
During his break out seasons, Olsen and quarterback Cam Newton developed a great relationship as the tight end became a favorite target. His production was up and opposing teams had little success in slowing him down.
Unfortunately, a foot injury suffered during the second game of the 2017 season kept Olsen sidelined for a majority of the year. He returned and after a healthy offseason was expecting a return to his high level of play before re-aggravating the injury and missing more time this past season.
In the past two years, Olsen has played in only 17 of the Panthers 33 football games and at 33 years old has retirement on the horizon. He’s already dabbled in the commentary business, receiving rave reviews and is likely to pursue an opportunity announcing games once he decides to hang up his cleats.
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According to ESPN staff writer David Newton, that won’t be anytime soon. Despite a recent rash of injuries, Olsen has plans to play again in 2019. Veteran center Ryan Kalil and defensive end Julius Peppers have already revealed their plans for retirement and the team announced linebacker Thomas Davis will not be returning.
There are a handful of other starters who may not be back next season either, but it’s good knowing Olsen will return to the field in a Panthers uniform. With two seasons remaining on his current contract, next year may not be his last either.
Carolina selected Ian Thomas in the fourth-round of the NFL Draft last season and he was immediately forced into action with Olsen out. As his development continues, the Panthers may benefit from having both on the field when the season arrives.
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A healthy Olsen remains the objective, but two productive tight ends for Newton to work with would be best.