Former Carolina Panthers guard Greg Van Roten has moved north to an AFC East team, but it wasn’t the Buffalo Bills. Adam Schefter of ESPN reports Van Roten has signed with the New York Jets.
Van Roten certainly has a better chance at playing time in New York, as they completely rebuild their offensive line this offseason. In addition to Roten, they’ve added center Josh Andrews, guard Alex Lewis, tackle George Fant, and center Connor McGovern. Like Buffalo did a year ago, it makes for a lot of competition this offseason.
In Buffalo, the Bills re-signed Quinton Spain this offseason but were still looking to upgrade their depth on the interior. Jon Feliciano is a free agent after 2020 but Spain, center Mitch Morse, and swing man Spencer Long are all under contract beyond this season.
Van Roten has played both center and guard for the Panthers. With versatility along the offensive line a coveted trait for head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane, it’s no surprise that the team would look to add a player like Van Roten. Add in the connection to the Carolina Panthers and it’s a no-brainer.
Van Roten has been Carolina’s full-time starter at left guard since the beginning of the 2018 season. He originally entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Green Bay Packers in 2012.