The Panthers need serious help on their O-Line. Jerry Richardson knows it, Dave Gettleman knows it, Ron Rivera knows, Cam Newton DEFINITELY knows it and Carolina fans know it. So in an effort to encourage the team to sign La’el Collins, one of the most coveted un-drafted free agents in recent history, Ethan Edwards has started a petition to get Panthers’ leadership to sign the former LSU offensive tackle.
Dear Mr. Richardson, Rivera, and Gettleman
I am petitioning you today in the hopes you’ll hear the voice of the Panther nation and, if cleared by Louisiana Police, use the full extent of your ability and resources to sign LSU Tackle La’el Collins.
If La’el is guilty, then he is a monster and deserves whatever penalty our justice system inflicts upon him. If he is innocent like most believe, then he has already lost millions of dollars, had his professional career irrevocably tarnished, and most importantly lost a once close friend. While I understand the potential negative media ramifications of signing La’el, I believe that as an organization we should be above that for his sake and ours.
Furthermore, as an organization, we stand firmly against “reaching” for players and have successfully adopted a BPA approach to drafting that has allowed us to become the first consecutive winners of the NFC South. La’el Collins is the best player available–bar none. If we truly act upon the principles we promote, then we will do whatever it takes to sign this man.
So Panthers Nation, please sign this petition and let our front office know that we are above any potential media circus this could cause and that we want the best team possible.
Thank You,
A Panther’s Fan
Ethan isn’t the only one pushing for Collins. Carolina offensive guard and former college teammate, Trai Turner has also been in La’el’s ear.
Doing my best guys, ultimately it's his decision. And I support whatever it is! Keep showing him we want him #KeepPounding
— Trai Turner (@trai_turner) May 5, 2015
I personally don’t have the most faith in free agent acquisition Michael Oher, so I just may add my name to this petition also. If you want to, you can do so here.