Carolina Panthers' Offensive Line Faces Challenges Ahead

Rebuilding the Line After Key Departures

The Carolina Panthers' offensive line is facing a major rebuilding project in 2022. The team lost three starters from last year's unit, including All-Pro guard Trai Turner, who signed with the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency. Center Matt Paradis and right tackle Daryl Williams also departed, leaving the Panthers with several holes to fill.

General manager Scott Fitterer has addressed the situation by signing free agents Austin Corbett and Bradley Bozeman, but there are still question marks about the unit's overall strength.

Assessing the Current Situation

Left Tackle: Ikem Ekwonu

The Panthers selected Ikem Ekwonu with the sixth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. The former North Carolina State standout is a physical specimen with excellent size and athleticism. He is expected to start at left tackle and be a key part of the team's offensive line for years to come.

However, he is a rookie and he can have some struggles. There will be a learning camp for him.

Left Guard: Austin Corbett

Austin Corbett signed a three-year, $26.25 million contract with the Panthers in free agency. He has started 48 games in his career, including 15 with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021. Corbett is a versatile lineman who can play both guard and center.

Corbett does have some injury issues in the past. He missed nine games in 2020 due to a calf injury.

Center: Bradley Bozeman

Bradley Bozeman signed a one-year, $2.8 million contract with the Panthers in free agency. He has started 49 games in his career, including 16 with the Baltimore Ravens in 2021. Bozeman is a tough, physical blocker who is known for his leadership.

He missed the last three games of the 2021 season due to an ankle injury.

Right Guard: Brady Christensen

Brady Christensen started 16 games at right tackle last season, but he is expected to move to right guard in 2022. Christensen is a young, talented player who has shown promise. However, he will need to improve his consistency in order to be a long-term starter.

Right Tackle: Taylor Moton

Taylor Moton has been a steady presence at right tackle for the Panthers since being drafted in the second round in 2017. He is a solid pass blocker and a good run blocker. However, he can be inconsistent at times.

Depth Concerns

Beyond the starting five, the Panthers have several depth concerns on the offensive line. Mike Horton, Deonte Brown, and Dennis Daley are all capable backups, but they have limited starting experience.

Outlook for 2022

The Panthers' offensive line is a work in progress. The team has some talented players, but there are also some question marks. If the unit can stay healthy and develop some consistency, it has the potential to be a strength for the team in 2022.