SerpApi.Org
The Panthers are ready to start practicing at training camp, but left tackle Ikem Ekwonu isn't ready to join them on the field.
Panthers GM Dan Morgan announced on Wednesday that Ekwonu will go on the physically unable to perform list to open camp. Ekwonu tore his patellar tendon during January's playoff loss to the Rams and the nature of the injury means there's still more rehab ahead for the 2022 first-round pick.
Morgan told reporters that Ekwonu is in a good place with that rehab and that he's optimistic about having the tackle back during the regular season, but did not set any timeline for return.
The Panthers also put right tackle Taylor Moton on the non-football injury list this week because of a blood clot in his lung. Moton is expected to be out into the regular season, which could leave Rasheed Walker and 2026 first-rounder Monroe Freeling as the team's top options at tackle.
Morgan also announced that defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton will go on PUP due to a neck injury and that defensive lineman Bobby Brown is headed to NFI with a hamstring issue. Cornerback Jaylon Guilbeau was waived off the non-football injury list.
