Panthers No. 76: 3 problems Russell Okung must overcome in 2020

Carolina Panthers No. 1: Injury history

Russell Okung has suffered his fair share of injury problems throughout his time in the NFL. This was especially evident in 2019 for the Los Angeles Chargers, with the playing on the sidelines for ten of the 16-game schedule.

This is a trend that has been something of a disappointment during his career. Okung has missed a total of 36 games over a ten-year period so far. And his latest layoff was his longest to date.

That alone is enough to give the Carolina Panthers real cause for concern regarding Okung’s health. The veteran is not getting any younger. And as games during the season take their toll. It appears extremely unlikely that the player is going to miss at least some time during the campaign.

The Panthers’ week 13 bye also represents a potential problem for Okung. This is a long time to wait for a rest. And there is just no telling what sort of shape he is going to be in by this time.

Carolina’s coaching staff would have been all-too-aware of this complication when making this move for Okung. It is essential that they manage the inevitable knocks. And they also have the option of sitting him out at certain periods of games given the presence of Taylor Moton and Greg Little.

These two linemen could be the future of the organization. But there is the notion that Little is still a little raw when it comes to his technique.

Having a player like Okung to learn from in 2020 should do wonders for his overall development. And there is a chance Little can contribute if or when the No. 1 left tackle options needs some time out.