Carolina Panthers decides to believe in their young left tackle's development heading into offseason.
The Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan took over this job with the understanding, that there would be difficult decisions to make. Fixing the wide receiver position, figuring out the contract situation with star linebackers, Brian Burns and Frankie Luvu. One of the biggest issues that plagued the Panthers' team, was the offensive line play […]
The Carolina Panthers general manager Dan Morgan took over this job with the understanding, that there would be difficult decisions to make. Fixing the wide receiver position, figuring out the contract situation with star linebackers, Brian Burns and Frankie Luvu.
One of the biggest issues that plagued the Panthers' team, was the offensive line play to protect Bryce Young. Specifically, the declining play of young left tackle and former sixth overall pick of the 2022 NFL Draft Ikem Ekwonu. Most fans have called for Ekwonu to be replaced at LT and kicked inside to guard. Is he going to be replaced in 2024?
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Morgan made it clear, for now at least, that Ekwonu is staying put at LT. Per, Joe Person's tweet below.
Ikem Ekwonu's regression in 2023 was devasting
When evaluating Ekwonu at North Carolina State, it was understood that he was a raw and unrefined pass protector. He offered a ton of upside with the right coaching. I recall being at his rookie training camp and listening to the aforementioned star LB Burns speak on Ekwonu's struggles. He said, "You're not going to power through him, he knows this but he has to figure out how to block guys like myself (Burns)." This has been the issue for Ekwonu, trying to handle the speedy, explosive, and bendy edge rushers.
As a rookie, he grew visibly on tape and his confidence was high. Changing coaching staff and offensive philosophy set him back. In 2022, Ekwonu allowed six sacks, one QB hit, and 27 pressures. This took a drastic turn for the worst in 2023 when he allowed 11 sacks, nine QB hits, and 44 pressures. Going from a gap/power scheme offense to a zone scheme negatively impacted the second-year offensive tackle.
Final Thoughts: Is this the right move?
Ekwonu is a talented and physically gifted young player. The hope from Dan Morgan is understandable but is it the right decision? I say yes, but there should be competition brought in via free agency. Instill the confidence in Ekwonu that was lost but creating competition to bring the best out of him. No matter what is said, coaching must help him get back to his 2022 form. If not, Bryce Young will not make it through a full season.
