After Bradley Bozeman signed a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Carolina Panthers this spring, many fans were left wondering—how? How were they able to sign such a promising young offensive lineman to such a steal of a deal?
Well, now we know why.
According to Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer, the 27-year-old center turned down multiple, more lucrative offers—including a long-term one from the Baltimore Ravens prior to the 2021 season—in favor of Carolina’s. And a big reason why was offensive line coach James Campen.
“But as free agency approached in March, the Bozemans knew they weren’t likely to return to Baltimore after turning down a long-term contract extension ahead of the new league year,” Kaye writes. “The couple started doing research on other potential landing spots.
“They decided to head to Carolina for less money than they were offered elsewhere, signing a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the NFC South franchise.
“The decision to head to Charlotte was made largely due to the feedback Bozeman received on Panthers offensive line coach James Campen.”
Campen’s reputation of being a particularly effective, player-friendly coach far preceded his arrival in Charlotte. (If you can get Aaron Rodgers to love you, then you must be a special dude.)
In turn, Bozeman has shined in his new opportunity. Since replacing Pat Elflein in the middle over the last four games, Bozeman has earned a career-best 76.4 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus and has been a catalyst for an emergent Panthers rushing attack—one averaging 159.5 yards per outing since he took over.
So even though his choice didn’t pay off literally, at least right away, it certainly should in a few months’ time.
