Who is on the Carolina Panthers’ second-tier Mount Rushmore?
By Dean Jones
Jordan Gross – Former Carolina Panthers OT
The Carolina Panthers are still looking for a successor to Jordan Gross.
He retired in 2013.
That is how good Gross was and the Panthers were fortunate to have him for the duration of his 11-year career. The former No. 8 overall selection in 2003 is widely regarded as the best offensive tackle ever to put on a Panthers uniform, with his consistency in the face of some of the league’s most dominant edge rushers something that has been almost impossible to replicate ever since.
Gross had a flawless technique that enabled him to get the better of almost everyone he came up against. His leadership within the locker room only enhanced his status across the organization and although some feel he retired a little too soon, he owed the team absolutely nothing after such an outstanding career.
The former Utah standout walked away with his head held high, which was only right. Gross made one All-Pro team, earned three Pro Bowl selections, and was deservedly inducted into the Panthers’ Hall of Honor in recognition of his exceptional commitment to the organization in 2019.
If Carolina’s current roster had someone even half as good as Gross manning the blindside, then they would be playoff contenders. He was a tremendous asset to the franchise and is thoroughly deserving of a place on this list.