Carolina Panthers Add Offensive Line Depth with Yosh Nijman Signing

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The Carolina Panthers are making moves, signing Yosh Nijman, a former offensive tackle from the Green Bay Packers. This deal, reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, is for two years, with $5 million guaranteed, and has a base value of $8 million, potentially reaching up to $15 million, as detailed by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.

Nijman's journey to the Panthers began when he joined the Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2019, hailing from Virginia Tech. He honed his skills on the practice squad before earning a spot on the 53-man roster in 2020. Throughout his time with the Packers, Nijman played in 67 games and started 22, spanning four seasons.

During the 2021 and 2022 seasons, Nijman showcased his versatility, making 21 starts at either left or right tackle. However, his role dwindled in 2023, making just one start after being surpassed by Zach Tom and Rasheed Walker in the pecking order, and playing a total of just over 200 offensive snaps.

In Carolina, Nijman will have a fresh opportunity to compete for a starting role on an offensive line that's undergoing changes. His performance in 2023, as per Pro Football Focus, included giving up two sacks, 10 pressures, and committing two penalties over 139 pass-blocking snaps. His versatility was on display, playing 198 snaps at left tackle and 32 at right tackle.

Nijman's signing adds to the exodus from the Packers this offseason, making him the sixth player to either be released or sign with another team. With the departures of Nijman, David Bakhtiari, and Jon Runyan Jr., who signed with the New York Giants, the Packers are expected to invest significantly in their offensive line during the upcoming 2024 draft.