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Carolina Panthers: Matt Kalil Offers Hope at Left Tackle

By Justin Coccia

Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) and tackle Matt Kalil (75) pass protect for quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) as Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) rushes in the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Vikings 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) and tackle Matt Kalil (75) pass protect for quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) as Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) rushes in the fourth quarter at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Vikings 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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Entering next season with multiple questions at offensive tackle, the Carolina Panthers made a free agency splash on Matt Kalil.

In the weeks leading up to 2017 NFL free agency, murmurings and rumors pointed to the Carolina Panthers acquiring free agent offensive tackle Matt Kalil. Previously the fourth overall selection by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2012 NFL Draft, Kalil experienced early success on his way to a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season. Unfortunately for the Vikings, Kalil’s quality has since tapered off, with multiple injuries leading to a streak of disappointing play.

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Well before the opening of free agency on 4 p.m. ET on Thursday, the inevitable became all but confirmed. What later came as a surprise was the price tag for Kalil’s services, clocking in at five years and $55.5 million, with $25 million in guaranteed money, per Tom Pelissero of USA Today Sports. A contract figure that is surely to be considered a premium, the Panthers filled their hole at left tackle on Day 1 of free agency.

For a player possessing a high pedigree, but recent streak of below average play, the move makes sense. Long time center Ryan Kalil will be joined by his younger sibling, the first time a pair of brothers have been coupled on an offensive line since 1993. Widely considered one of the finest centers in the league, the hope lies in the potential motivation and chemistry the two may be able to provide for each other.

Further, the Panthers were experiencing looming question marks surrounding the offensive tackle position. Holding the eighth overall pick in a draft lacking in offensive tackle talent, it seemed unlikely that general manager Dave Gettleman would make a reach against his philosophy. Coupled with Michael Oher still undergoing concussion protocol and the underwhelming play of Mike Remmers, the team was forced to look towards free agency for potential answers.

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At 27 years of age and with the monetary backing of the franchise, Kalil will have massive expectations placed upon him. If he can return to his early form and provide the much needed protection for Cam Newton, the contract will prove to be well worth the money. At the very least, the team has diligently filled a massive hole leading up to the NFL Draft, giving them more freedom and flexibility with their draft choices.

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