I don’t have specific insights into Samson Okunlola’s progress as an offensive lineman, but from everything I’ve seen, he’s struggling with the game's speed at this level, particularly as an offensive tackle.
Given the current state of our offensive line, the staff hoped Pancake would start as LG this year, replacing Javion Cohen, then transition to starting LT next year, similar to Evan Neal's journey at Alabama. However, it seems his performance at LG this spring didn’t meet expectations, leading to his shift to RT.
While our staff likes to cross-train players, the immediate need at LG during spring demanded focus on development in that position.
Pancake arrived at UM as a highly regarded recruit with high expectations, which in today’s NIL market equates to making him one of the highest-paid players on the team.
Development timing has been compressed for players of this caliber. It seems like they have a maximum 2-year window, irrespective of injuries, to prove their worth as starters or significant contributors to the team.
The dilemna arises: should they maintain their investment or reallocate resources to other players who can offer an immediate impact? Alternatively, should they consider a position change?
Mario mentioned experimenting with position changes in practice, citing Elijah Lofton’s versatility and Robby Washington's trial at corner.
So, if Pancake is indeed struggling on offense, why not explore his potential at DT, where he excelled in high school? Though it’s a high school achievement, based on his film, I believe he projects better at that position.
It’s a significant transition, reminiscent of Warren Sapp's shift from TE to DT, which could redefine Pancake’s trajectory. While Jayden Wayne is no longer here, I would have liked to see him attempt the tight end position, where I think he projects better.