4 UDFAs who made a big impression at Carolina Panthers camp
By Dean Jones
Sam Tecklenburg – OL
There is nobody who knew more about what Sam Tecklenburg brings to the table than Matt Rhule. The head coach worked with the offensive lineman during their time together at Baylor. And his decision to bring in the undrafted free-agent to training camp has been a masterstroke.
Tecklenburg did not show much interest in forging a career in football after retiring as a college player. This complete turnaround has put him in a tremendous position to make the Carolina Panthers next season after catching the eye considerably during team drills.
He has the versatility to play anywhere on the offensive line, which is a huge plus given the Panthers’ concerns on the interior. Tecklenburg is seen as a nice complementary piece at this stage. But his prospects of becoming a starter down the line have grown significantly thanks to his high level of performance in recent weeks.
There wouldn’t be much pressure on Tecklenburg coming in and starting right away if he makes the roster. This would give him more time to learn, develop, and find out more about what becoming a solid professional at the next level actually involves.
He is still a work in progress, of that there is little doubt. Tecklenburg has done his chances the world of good over the last fortnight at padded practices and became a big hit with teammates in the process.