Prior to 2021, in which he started at center for the Baltimore Ravens, new Carolina Panthers offensive lineman Bradley Bozeman played every one of his NFL snaps at guard. So that experience may come in handy.
When asked where he expects to play this upcoming season, Bozeman—who could see some competition at center from fellow veteran Pat Elflein—left his answer pretty open.
“I’m a very versatile offensive lineman. I can play guard, I can play center. Tackle, quarterback—wherever you need me,” he said with a smile. “But I feel like I’m a very capable guard. I think really I shine at center. I think that’s where I bring my best values to the table. But open to play wherever. I mean, I’m here to help the team. That’s why I was brought here.”
Quarterback, you say? Don’t tease us, Bradley.
Bozeman signed a one-year, $2.8 million deal with the Panthers out of free agency. That pact came fresh off a career campaign for the 27-year-old, as he earned highs across the board—overall as well as for pass blocking and run blocking—in Pro Football Focus’ grading system.
It’s still very, very early, so no determination to who plays where is even close to being made. But if he does end up shifting over a spot, Bozeman will be ready for it.
“Overall, really everything,” he said about what he’s prepared to learn in a potential transition. “Just my balance, my body control, my hand placement. Just everything that comes with that. My knowledge of the game, being able to read stances, read defenses, be able to be on top of it and know what’s gonna happen before it happens. I think at guard that would be a real strong suit for me to go and learn and become a better guard.”
And if all else fails, he may actually wind up under center rather than at center for this quarterback-deprived franchise.
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