The Biggest Question Facing Panthers as Draft Nears Could Break 2026 Season

The Carolina Panthers answered plenty of questions about their future in free agency. They found the edge rusher of the future, added the linebacker they've desperately needed for years, and shored up some other positions.

It's given them plenty of flexibility to do whatever they want in the NFL draft. They're not locked into taking an edge rusher or a linebacker early on now. However, one question does remain, and it could make or break the 2026 season.

How will the Panthers manage a reshaped, unsettled offensive line?

Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Rasheed Walker (63) during the game | Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

Continuity is key in the NFL, especially on the offensive line. It was hugely beneficial to the Panthers that every single member of their 2024 offensive line returned for 2025. In both years, the unit was solid.

In 2026, though, that won't be the case. Cade Mays has signed with the Detroit Lions, and Luke Fortner is the replacement. Ikem Ekwonu is injured, and Rasheed Walker is the replacement. Austin Corbett signed with the Buffalo Bills. Brady Christensen is still a free agent.

Only Taylor Moton, Damien Lewis, Robert Hunt, and Chandler Zavala (who hopefully won't have to play much) are returning starters. It's going to be a very different offensive line. It is still full of talented players, but continuity is gone.

Per Bleacher Report's Brad Gagnon, that's the biggest question still facing the Panthers as the draft looms. "How will they handle continued shuffling with the offensive line?" he asked

Gagnon answered, "This is a fragile situation. As mentioned, offensive line continuity is critical when you're trying to develop a young quarterback and take an emerging offense to the next level."

Aside from the aforementioned exits and arrivals, Yosh Nijman also retired. He filled in for both tackle spots last year. EVerything has shuffled, and the shuffling may not be done yet.

"Are they done? Probably not. Will they get it right? Jury's out." Gagnon said. The Panthers are highly likely to draft a tackle because Ekwonu and Walker are free agents after this year. Moton's contract expires after the 2027 season.

New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough (6) looks to pass as center Luke Fortner blocks | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

They may also draft a center since the only person on the roster who can play center is Fortner, and he's also on a one-year deal. The continuity is already gone, and it could get worse in the next two seasons, when Lewis and Hunt also hit free agency.

They will likely add multiple linemen in the draft, and things could be very interesting when the season rolls around. With Bryce Young on the rise, it's important that they get it all right.