Michael Oher signs two-year deal with Panthers

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Michael Oher will now be protecting Cam Newton’s blind side in an effort to keep the franchise quarterback off his backside.

On Friday, the Panthers announced the signing of Oher to a two-year deal.

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"I'm excited to be joining an organization that knows how to win. They've won the past two division championships, and I'm excited to be a part of it," Oher said. "When I came here on a visit, the culture was great. They're very into winning and doing everything possible to win."

Oher was selected 23rd overall in the 2009 draft by the Ravens and spent five seasons in Baltimore. He spent the 2014 season with the Titans.

He started the first 11 games of the 2014 season at right tackle before a foot injury forced him off the field the remainder of the season. The 6-4, 315-pound tackle failed his exit physical in Tennessee, which led to his release from a five-year, $20 million deal signed last offseason.

Oher’s signing in Carolina reunites him with former Ravens offensive line coach John Matsko, who joined the Panthers after the 2010 season.

He will likely move back to left tackle, where he has started in 37 of his 80 career starts.

The Panthers desperately needed an upgrade at the position after deciding not to re-sign Byron Bell — who, according to Pro Football Focus, was second-lowest rated left tackle in the league, allowing 11 sacks last season.

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