Russell Okung – Former Carolina Panthers OT
In fairness to the Carolina Panthers’ offensive line, their gradual progression over the last month has been encouraging. The introduction of Michael Jordan and Trent Scott on the interior has solidified things considerably, which is a trend that continued in Week 10 at the Arizona Cardinals in both pass protection and running downs.
If there was one knock, it would be the left tackle position. Cam Erving is on the reserve/injured list and Dennis Daley conceded multiple penalties in Arizona before going off with an injury.
Brady Christensen came in and did well when Daley left the field. But the Panthers are taking things slow with the third-round pick despite the BYU product being older than most rookies.
Bringing in an offensive lineman at this stage is risky business. However, there is a Pro Bowl left tackle sitting on the market who is already familiar with the system.
Russell Okung had his problems staying healthy during his one season with the Panthers, but his production represents an upgrade on anything Carolina currently has.
Whether he’d be interested in coming back from semi-retirement is anybody’s guess. However, it might be something the Super Bowl winner considers now Cam Newton is manning the plate.
Okung doesn’t need the money, so whether suiting up again is worth the effort at this stage is something he’d have to decide for himself. But the benefits of Carolina acquiring him on a short-term deal are obvious.