According to ESPN analyst Adam Schefter, left tackle Matt Kalil is expected to sign with the Carolina Panthers later today. Terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed. Kalil spent his first five years in the league with the Minnesota Vikings after being drafted fourth overall in 2012.
Former Vikings’ OT Matt Kalil expected to sign with brother Ryan’s Panthers if no snags in final talks, per sources. Kalil brother reunion.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2017
Report: Matt Kalil To Sign With Carolina Panthers
Still just 27 years old and in his physical prime, Kalil has had an up and down career to this point. He made the Pro-Bowl as an alternate his rookie year after allowing 5.5 sacks and helping pave the way for Adrian Peterson to rush for over 2000 yards. His play diminished his sophomore campaign, but was still solid. The former USC standout struggled mightily his third season, allowing over 13 sacks was generally a complete liability. 2015 was a better season for Kalil, and he played well enough for the team to exercise his fifth year option, but he was far from spectacular.
Despite his struggles in his first four years in the league, Kalil had been a model of durability and toughness, never missing a single snap in his career until late in a win over the New York Giants in 2015. Unfortunately, playing through injury eventually took it’s toll, and Kalil only appeared in two games for the Vikings in 2016 before being placed on injured reserve with a hip injury. After sitting out almost an entire season to rehabilitate and heal, he should be 100% headed into training camp.
When healthy and confident, Kalil can be at least an average NFL starter. He has struggled with confidence and often plays without passion, causing some observers to question his drive and love for the game. After signing a new contract, it is clear the team believes in him and his ability to help along the offensive line.
