Today there was a number moves that took place around the NFL, right before teams start to gear up for training camp. The Carolina Panthers released a veteran offensive lineman while giving their young guard a contract extension. Also, the Dallas Cowboys brought in a veteran linebacker.
Panthers release Michael Oher
The Carolina Panthers have released veteran offensive tackle Michael Oher with a failed physical designation. Oher missed the final 13 games of last season after being placed in the NFL's concussion protocol. He was still in the protocol last month when the team reported for mandatory minicamp.
Oher signed a contract extension last June, following the team's Super Bowl run where he started at left tackle. His release will count a little over $5 million against the team's salary cap.
They also gave Trai Turner a contract extension
In a different offensive line move, the Carolina Panthers gave starting right guard Trai Turner a four-year, $45 million extension. The deal comes with $20.5 million in guaranteed money and a $15 million signing bonus. This deal comes as Turner was entering the final year of his rookie deal. He is now the third-highest paid guard in the NFL, making $11.2 million per year.
Turner was selected by the team in the third round of the 2014 NFL Draft out of LSU. He emerged as the team's starting right guard during his rookie season and has held that position since then.
He has made the Pro Bowl each of the last two seasons, proving he is one of the best young guards in the NFL. Releasing Michael Oher and extending Turner were the first two moves made by interim general manager Marty Hurney.
Cowboys add veteran Justin Durant
The Dallas Cowboys have added veteran linebacker Justin Durant in the wake of Damien Wilson facing a suspension and Jaylon Smith and Mark Nzeocha rehabbing injuries.
The team signed Durant to a one-year deal, with financial details having yet to be announced. Durant spent last season playing for the Cowboys, as well as 2013 and 2014. In a corresponding move to make room for Durant, the team released cornerback Jeremiah McKinnon, who spent part of last season on the practice squad.
In his ten year career, Durant has also played for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Detriot Lions, and Atlanta Falcons. He has played in a total of 121 games, starting 93 of them. He has a career total of 491 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, 5 forced fumbles, 5 recovered fumbles and 26 passes defended.
