CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Carolina Panthers will wrap up off-season training activities this week and overall, head coach Ron Rivera likes what he has seen. 

  • Guard Andrew Norwell left the team to sign with Jacksonville Jaguars
  • Rivera says that role is vital to protect the quarterback
  • He says other players have stepped up and there are good options on the team

One of the goals for the team has been retaining what has been implemented for their offensive and defensive schemes. 

One of the big question marks for the Panthers is on their offensive line as they will need to replace Andrew Norwell. He left the team as a free agent to sign with Jacksonville while Pro Bowl guard Trai Turner remains. Rivera feels the guard position is vital within the offensive line to help protect the quarterback.

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"Trai plays the right guard position which is probably the toughest one because you are matched up with their best defensive linemen as far as pass-rushers, or tackles are concerned," Rivera said.  "He does a great job for us.  Again, losing Andrew was a big blow, but we've got some guys who have stepped up and looked really good out there.  Again, we're not pads yet, so once we get into pads, we'll get a better feel."    

Rivera feels there are viable options to replace Norwell on the roster, and that position battle will be watched throughout next week's mini-camp and then training camp in July.

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