Carolina Panthers veteran left tackle Jordan Gross will announce his retirement Wednesday, according to Joe Person of the Charlotte Observer.
Gross' future with the Panthers was always uncertain, made more so with his statements following the team's playoff loss to the San Francisco 49ers. He was reflective when asked about his future and said he was sure he'd work in the area "one way or another" which prompted speculation he could be looking for a career change. The veteran lineman made a serious effort in 2013 to become a bigger presence on radio with regular appearances on WFNZ in Charlotte and hosting his own podcast on Panthers.com This is Gross.
The loss is immeasurable for the organization. Carolina does not have any current plan at offensive tackle and this could be the worst complete offensive line the team has had in over a decade. This is a time the Panthers were poised to take a step forward, but instead they'll take three back unless general manager Dave Gettleman finds a way to solidify the line.
Gross will be remembered as arguably the best offensive tackle in franchise history and the future is a little scarier.