Panthers Place Moton and Horn on NFI

The Carolina Panthers placed starting right tackle Taylor Moton and cornerback Jaycee Horn on the reserve/non-football injury list this week, sidelining both players for the start of training camp. Moton, a 10-year veteran, was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism in late June and is currently undergoing treatment with blood thinners. While medical staff report positive progress, the team confirmed Moton will not be available for the Week 1 regular season opener.

The absence of Moton creates a significant vacancy on the offensive line, as he has been a consistent starter since 2018 and played every offensive snap for the team between 2018 and 2023. The Panthers are now evaluating depth options, including Monroe Freeling, to fill the right tackle position. This personnel challenge is compounded by the status of left tackle Ikem Ekwonu, who remains on the physically unable to perform list following January surgery to repair a ruptured patellar tendon.

The medical timeline for Moton remains fluid, with team officials stating he is expected to return at some point during the season. Horn, who sustained a foot laceration, is anticipated to rejoin team activities early in the training camp schedule. The organization must now integrate less-experienced personnel into the starting rotation to address the immediate gaps in the offensive front.