The Carolina Panthers received tough news just before training camp: star offensive tackle Taylor Moton has been diagnosed with blood clots in his lung. The team announced Tuesday that Moton is undergoing treatment and will begin the season on the non-football injury list.
According to NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe, Moton is expected to miss the start of the 2026 season, but there is optimism he'll return later in the year. “Panthers RT Taylor Moton is receiving treatment for blood clots and starts training camp on non-football injury list,” Wolfe reported. “Moton expected to miss start of season but belief is he plays in 2026. Panthers OTs Rasheed Walker and 1st rd pick Monroe Freeling as top options to play.”
Moton has been a model of consistency for Carolina. He started 15 of 17 games last season and has appeared in 145 games since entering the league in 2017. His absence is a significant blow to an offensive line that relied heavily on his durability and leadership.
On the bright side, the Panthers have a promising rookie waiting in the wings. First-round pick Monroe Freeling, selected 19th overall, earned All-SEC honors at Georgia last season. He'll compete with veteran Rasheed Walker for the starting right tackle job in Moton's absence.
Fans took to social media to express their concern and support for Moton. “Man that’s awful,” one fan wrote on X. “Prayers up for TMo for a speedy recovery.” Another added, “Brutal. Hope he’s alright. Blood clots can be scary.” A third fan noted, “Tough for Moton and the Panthers. At least he is expected to play this season still.”
This isn't the first time a key player has faced a health scare before the season. The Panthers will need to rely on their depth and coaching to weather the early games without their veteran tackle.
Carolina opens the 2026 campaign on Sept. 13 against the Chicago Bears. With Moton sidelined, all eyes will be on Freeling and Walker to protect the quarterback and keep the offense moving.
For now, the focus remains on Moton's recovery. The team and fans alike are hoping for a full return to the field later this year, but the immediate challenge is clear: find a way to win without their most reliable lineman.
