Ryan Kalil Abruptly Comes Out of Retirement, Joins Jets

Long-time Carolina Panther center Ryan Kalil is opting out of retirement and will join the New York Jets.

NFL Insider Ian Rapoport announced the signing on Thursday, and it's a one-year, $8.4 million deal. Kalil spent his 12-year NFL career with the Panthers and seemed to be at peace with his decision. But, the payday was enticing enough to bring Kalil back on to the field.

Stunning plot twist: Former #Panthers C Ryan Kalil will come out of his brief retirement to join... the #Jets, sources say. He’s agreed to terms, pending physical. A huge veteran influence to join QB Sam Darnold at a position of need.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2019

The #Jets and C Ryan Kalil have agreed to terms on a 1-year deal worth $8.4M, source said. A hefty payday and worth it for NYJ. Huge lift for that line and for QB Sam Darnold.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 1, 2019

The Jets are bringing in a leader who has made five Pro Bowls and has been named First-Team All-Pro twice. They have a dire need for the center position -- especially to help guide Sam Darnold. Kalil hasn't eclipsed $6 million in a season yet -- so the payday will also be a huge bonus for him.