Richie Incognito‘s return from suspension led the Raiders to release Jonathan Cooper. The former top-10 pick is already generating interest.
The Panthers are hosting Cooper on a visit Thursday, Field Yates of ESPN.com tweets. The 29-year-old blocker is a Wilmington, N.C., native and is a former Tar Heel. Cooper, though, has made his way through several teams and has suited up for four franchises over the past four seasons.
Carolina has Trai Turner and Greg Van Roten installed as its guard starters and drafted Dennis Daley in the sixth round this year. However, reserve offensive lineman Brandon Greene has not practiced this week due to a neck injury, creating a potential need for depth up front.
Cooper played for the Cardinals, Browns, Cowboys and Redskins over the past four seasons. He was also with the Patriots and 49ers in this span. The 2013 draftee did not play for the Raiders this season, being a healthy scratch in each of Oakland’s first two games.
Keep bringing in retreads. Don’t draft an offensive lineman high in the draft or sign a quality free agent. This is why Newton has to run for his life.