Carolina Panthers

Panthers: Michael Oher Set to Return or Retire?

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

Since being sidelined with a concussion, the Carolina Panthers left tackle has been hinting at retirement…

Occurring late in the practice week, the Carolina Panthers Michael Oher entered the NFL’s concussion protocol on a Friday. Due to the late notification, it was initially believed to be an injury resulting from practice. However, Joseph Person of The Charlotte Observer reports that Oher may have suffered the injury even earlier; during the Week Two game against San Francisco.

The Panthers’ left tackle started the next week against Minnesota but surrendered three sacks, a safety, and was flagged for holding. Out of character for the man who had appeared to revive his career in Carolina a year ago.

Despite missing three consecutive games and benefiting from the bye week, Oher currently remains in the concussion protocol.

Linebacker Luke Kuechly missed three games last season after suffering a concussion during the season opener at Jacksonville. Kuechly too had the benefit of a bye week following the three absences before being able to return to action. Quarterback Cam Newton missed this year’s Tampa Bay game after suffering a concussion late during the Week Four game in Atlanta.

A closer examination of Oher’s most recent Instagram posts seem to point toward a thoughtful and reflective NFL veteran.

Michael Oher is a former first-round selection for the Baltimore Ravens and Super Bowl XLVII Champion. He has spent over seven seasons in the NFL, five in Baltimore and one in Tennessee before signing with the Carolina Panthers prior to the 2015 season.

Oher was a vital member of an offensive line that helped pave the way to a 15-1 regular season and Super Bowl 50 appearance. Needless to say, Oher has accomplished much more than a majority of NFL linemen during his time in the league.

Only Oher knows for himself his feelings for the game of football and how it relates to his overall health and well being. Having accomplished so much and being a vital part of the Panthers’ 2015 season, fans in Carolina would have only well wishes for the veteran. However, his return to the left side of the offensive line and protection of Newton would also be a welcome sight in Carolina.

As each day passes, an answer draws closer to fruition and judging from Oher’s other shared inspirational quotes, his decision will surely be well thought out.