Carolina Panthers sign Jonathan Martin: Will he have an impact?

The San Francisco 49ers cut offensive lineman Jonathan Martin on Thursday and the Panthers picked him up on Friday.

More from Carolina Panthers

Probably best known as being the subject of the Dolphins bullying scandal a few years ago, Jonathan Martin largely toiled in mediocrity for the 49ers and he was subsequently cut on Thursday as NFL free agency rolls on. He wasn’t out of work long, however, as the Carolina Panthers claimed him off of waivers on Friday, according to Pro Football Talk.

Martin has occasionally shown flashes of pro level talent, but many questioned his ability to survive in the locker room after all the abuse stories came out. Going to the 49ers and his old coach Jim Harbaugh was a perfect opportunity to reestablish himself, but it’s not clear that he did that in San Francisco. Largely known as a sieve that NFC West rival fans hoped would line up against their defenses, Martin was only starting fairly consistently because there were injuries and literally no other options.

Three things that Martin brings to the Panthers: experience, toughness and depth. He obviously has experience, having started in 32 NFL games and playing both tackle spots. He has physical toughness, without any major injuries keeping out of playing time, and he gives the Panthers depth and depth is always nice to have.

On the other hand, he’s a sieve, a turnstyle and whatever else you want to describe an offensive lineman with that ranked 60th last year among offensive tackles and dead last in his draft year of 2012 at 76th. He allowed six sacks last year, one hit and 21 hurries. Fans of Panthers divisional rivals are already relishing the idea of him starting on the Panthers line.

You could certainly argue that Martin’s first three years in the league weren’t ideal for a young player. Besides the Dolphins situation, the 49ers were also in flux last year with plenty of rumors throughout the season that Harbaugh was on his way out. Nevertheless, he was still with his old coach and one of the more professional and veteran lines in the league. He was still bad.

Verdict: if he starts for the Panthers, Cam Newton better watch his back.

More from FanSided

Home/Carolina Panthers