A look at the offensive line position in my series on where the money is for the Carolina Panthers:
Analysis: You've read it and heard it here before. If left tackle Michael Oher successfully resurrects his career the Panthers have a bargain. Oher's average salary of $3.5 million ranks 23rd among left tackles heading into 2015. That Carolina didn't invest more in a proven free agent or use a high draft pick to fill the position has drawn criticism. But the Panthers are convinced Oher will come through now that his toe injury is healed and he's been reunited with former Ravens' offensive line coach John Matsko.
The rest of the line, outside of center Ryan Kalil, comes at bargain basement prices. Right tackle Mike Remmers, right guard Trai Turner and left guard Andrew Norwell, the starters entering camp, count a combined $1,756,950 against the cap. That's more than $6 million less than Jacksonville Jaguars right tackle Jeremy Parnell ($8 million) is scheduled to count against the cap. Kalil's $11,795,000 cap hit ranks second in the NFL at center, but considering he's been to four Pro Bowls and what he means in terms of leadership he's worth it.
Eventually, the Panthers will have to invest more on the line. Right now, if Oher succeeds, they have a bargain unit.
