Today, the Carolina Panthers released the former Ravens offensive lineman, Michael Oher. Michael Oher was drafted to the Ravens in the first round of the 2009 Draft. The offensive tackle quickly became a staple on the offensive line for the Ravens. Oher started every game in his rookie season and finished second in voting for AP’s Rookie of the Year. Oher was also a major contributor to the Ravens’ Super Bowl run in 2012, as he provided solid blocking for both Joe Flacco and the running back group. Despite success with the Baltimore Ravens, Oher opted to leave the organization in 2014, when he inked a deal with the Tennessee Titans.
In 2014 Michael Oher left the Ravens to join the Titans on a 5 year $20 million contract. However, Oher only played 5 games for the Titans, after injuring his toe late in the season. Tennessee released Oher later that offseason, as they lost confidence in him. He was later picked up by the Carolina Panthers, where he played with quarterback Cam Newton. The Panthers gave Oher an initial 2 year $7 million contract and extended it in 2016. However, Oher sustained a concussion during the 2016 season and only played three games that season. This offseason, Oher failed a physical for the Panthers, prompting his departure from the organization today.
Could Michael Oher Return to Baltimore?
Oher was a major part of Baltimore’s magical 2012 season, however, the team will likely not attempt to bring him back to the organization. Oher during his stay in Baltimore was a solid tackle. However, he has faced numerous injury problems since his departure from the city. Even though the Ravens are in the market for adding a veteran offensive tackle, Oher may be too much of a risk for the organization to feel comfortable bringing him back. Previously injuring his toe in 2014, and suffering a major concussion in 2016 is very troubling. The Baltimore Ravens lack substantial depth on the offensive line, so adding an injury prone player is almost useless. There are also other options at offensive tackle the Ravens could pursue instead of Oher. On a previous post, I explored several options at tackle for the Ravens. I came to the conclusion that 26-year-old Austin Pasztor would be the best option for Baltimore going forward, and I continue to believe that.
