3 former Panthers who could come out of retirement and play

Mike Tolbert

Anyone that saw full-back Mike Tolbert play could instantly tell you what the player brings to the table. He enjoyed a fantastic five-year spell with the Carolina Panthers and was widely regarded as one of the most ferocious players operating at the position.

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Putting the player in front of Christian McCaffrey has the potential to cause some real damage. The Panthers offensive line has been suspect over the last two seasons and putting someone who was renowned for making holes in opposing defenses would be highly beneficial for the Panthers’ new face of the franchise.

Tolbert was as aggressive as they come and played every down as if it was his last. He was a supreme asset to the Panthers both on and off the field and became a real fan favorite thanks to his passionate demeanor and tireless work ethic.

Full back is a position that has become increasingly irrelevant in recent seasons. This is down to the pass-happy nature of the next generation of offensive coordinators who are looking to leave their own mark on the game.

Only a few remain in a prominent starting role. But the Panthers rely on their running game heavily and putting Tolbert as the lead back to plow the road for McCaffrey would still be a fine asset to have.

Tolbert himself has coped well with retirement over the last year after initially struggling to come to terms with the decision. The temptation will always be there for players who still feel like they have something to offer. But realistically, coming back could do more harm than good.