Solving the Carolina Panthers Ickey Ekwonu "problem"

Heading into the 2023 season, the Carolina Panthers offensive line was viewed as a strength. The thought by then general manager Scott Fitterer was that he had invested enough in the offensive line over the previous two offseasons that there would be no issues placing a rookie quarterback in Bryce Young behind them.

Well, Fitterer and this podcast host were wrong. While not all sacks can be credited to the offensive line, the Panthers allowed 65 sacks on the season, tied for second-most in the NFL, and severely regressed from what was viewed as a breakthrough 2022 campaign.

Now, with a new GM on the way, the Panthers need to figure out what to do with this unit moving forward. All five starters from the 2022 season are under contract in 2024 and there are decisions to be made about each of their futures.

One of the biggest issues the Panthers need to solve this offseason is determining the future of left tackle Ickey Ekwonu.

After a solid rookie campaign, Ekwonu struggled in 2023 allowing 11 sacks, according to Pro Football Focus. Now, with a new coaching staff coming in and a new general manager there's questions about where Ekwonu best fits on the Panthers line moving forward.

Should the Panthers move soon-to-be third-year left tackle Ickey Ekwonu inside to guard? If they do, will his replacement come from the draft or free agency? Would it be in the franchises best interest to make it work with Ekwonu at left tackle?

Julian Council provides his road map to fixing the Carolina Panthers offensive line this offseason.

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