Panthers Start Season with New Tackles as Moton Out

The Carolina Panthers again face offensive-line disruption as right tackle Taylor Moton remains out with blood clots in his lung and will start the season on the non-football injury list, with a return expected later in 2026. Cornerback Jaycee Horn is also sidelined at the start of camp due to a foot issue but is expected back soon, while left tackle Ikem Ekwonu continues to be unavailable with a ruptured patellar tendon, intensifying the line's depth concerns. With Moton out and Ekwonu unavailable, the Panthers are projected to begin the season with two new tackles, likely relying on first‑round rookie Monroe Freeling and veteran Rasheed Walker to protect quarterback Bryce Young. Freeling has been getting reps at right tackle in the offseason, and Walker was signed to provide experienced depth as Moton recovers. The situation underscores a heavy reliance on younger players on the line as the team tries to maintain stability until Moton can return.