Michael Oher reports to Panthers minicamp, not on field

ByBob Pockrass ESPN logo
Tuesday, June 13, 2017

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Carolina Panther offensive tackle Michael Oher has reported to mandatory minicamp Tuesday but is not on the field.

Oher played in only three games in 2016 before being placed in the NFL concussion protocol. He did not participate in OTAs, and his future appeared even more murky after he posted a photo Thursday on Instagram that showed 10 pill bottles with the caption, "All for the brain smh."

The team said Oher is meeting with doctors. Coach Ron Rivera didn't comment on prognosis.

"He is here ... I haven't had an opportunity yet [to talk to him]," Rivera said.

When asked if there was any reason to be encouraged, Rivera said: "He's in town."

Well known for his life story, which was the basis for the book and movie, "The Blind Side," Oher signed a three-year, $21.6 million deal with the Panthers in June 2016.

Daryl Williams, who made 10 starts at right tackle last year in place of Oher, and second-round draft pick Taylor Moton would likely battle for the starting spot if Oher can't go.

Williams said Oher's absence would not change his mindset at minicamp.

"It has never changed my approach, even when I was a backup," Williams said. "[Our coaches] do a great job of getting us ready."

Oher faces possible NFL discipline after he was charged in May with misdemeanor assault on an Uber driver in Nashville. His next court date is July 21.

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