Russell Okung: 3 Possible Landing Spots For Top Free Agent

The offensive tackle market looked pretty thin just a few short weeks ago. Now with additions like Russell Okung, that narrative has flipped in a hurry.

It’s surprising that the Denver Broncos chose to part ways with the 29-year old veteran after just one season. While the money was a bit prohibitive, he was still one of their most experience and reliable members of an otherwise poor offensive line. Now he’s available for the second time in two offseasons, leaving many to wonder where he might end up next.

Some think he’s on his way back to Seattle, who had loads of offensive line issues in his absence. Others believe the New York Giants are a great landing spot for him. Especially given their need for help in the run game. However, are those teams really the likeliest to sign him? Here are three possibilities that make the most sense.

Best equipped: Jacksonville Jaguars

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Tom Coughlin didn’t mince words. He made it clear the secret to getting more out of their offense and their team was through the offensive line. One that has really been terrible for the Jacksonville Jaguars the past few years. Left tackle was a major culprit. First it was the busting of former top draft pick Luke Joeckel and then the failure of free agent Kelvin Beachum. Okung strikes as a Coughlin type. Big, physical and plays with some attitude.

Biggest threat: Carolina Panthers

The tackle situation is becoming a problem for the Panthers. Not a good thing given the abuse Cam Newton has taken lately. Carolina is a running football team. They want to get after it on the ground. Play physical, ball control football and looking for big plays. That is exactly the kind of offense Okung is made for. He’d solve their left tackle issue and give them flexibility towards fixing problems elsewhere on the roster.

Dark horse: Chicago Bears

The interior of the offensive line for the Bears is set. They have two Pro Bowl guards in Kyle Long and Josh Sitton. Not to mention an All-Rookie center in Cody Whitehair. It’s on the edge where they remain decidedly mediocre with Charles Leno Jr. and Bobby Massie. Neither can be considered “terrible” persay but they weren’t exactly good in 2016 either. The general feeling is that front is a good tackle away from being one of the best in the league. With a new quarterback about to come in, that could be high on the priority list.

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