Ryan Kalil announced his retirement after last season – spending all 12 years with the Carolina Panthers. However, that retirement didn't exactly last long. On Thursday it was reported that the center has agreed to a deal with the New York Jets.
Stunning plot twist: Former #Panthers C Ryan Kalil will come out of his brief retirement to join… the #Jets, sources say. He’s agreed to terms, pending physical. A huge veteran influence to join QB Sam Darnold at a position of need.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2019
Kalil has been one of the best centers in the NFL for a long time. He's a two-time Pro Bowler and two-time First Team All-Pro. However, last year was the first time since 2014 that Kalil appeared in all 16 games in a season.
Maybe that's part of why he retired. Kalil possibly felt he couldn't stay healthy again for a full 16 games. However, after a few months of resting, he likely felt healthier than he had in a long time. Or, maybe he realized he still had a few seasons left in him. It could also be that he simply missed the game of football too much.
Or maybe the New York Jets called him up with an offer he simply couldn't refuse.
Either way, this move makes a ton of sense for the Jets. Kalil is still an amazing talent at center – and he's a veteran to put around quarterback Sam Darnold. Of course, he'll be there to help protect the young franchise quarterback, but he can also teach him a lot about the game in the NFL.
The deal was announced as a one-year deal worth $8.4-million.
The #Jets and C Ryan Kalil have agreed to terms on a 1-year deal worth $8.4M, source said. A hefty payday and worth it for NYJ. Huge lift for that line and for QB Sam Darnold.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2019
That definitely isn't cheap, but it could still be a steal if he helps reinforce the line and develops the young players (again, especially Darnold).
There's no question that Kalil will perform well, the only real question is if he'll be convinced to come back for another season following 2019.
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