The Carolina Panthers are evaluating their offensive line as they prepare for the 2026 offseason, following a season marked by frequent injuries and lineup changes. The team, which plays its home games in downtown Charlotte, North Carolina, is focusing on maintaining depth and stability up front after using 12 different starting combinations during the 2025 campaign.
Last year, the Panthers re-signed centers Austin Corbett and Cade Mays, along with versatile lineman Brady Christensen and backup tackle Yosh Nijman. These moves ensured continuity among their top nine linemen from the previous season. However, injuries to Robert Hunt, Corbett, Christensen (who suffered a torn Achilles), and Chandler Zavala forced the team to rotate through multiple players.
Damien Lewis was the only offensive lineman to play more than 900 snaps in 2025. The Panthers were one of just nine NFL teams with a single lineman reaching that mark; only the Green Bay Packers also made the playoffs under similar circumstances. Despite these challenges, Carolina finished tied for 12th in sacks allowed and ranked among the league’s best in rushing yards before contact.
Head coach Dave Canales relied on system fits like Jake Curhan—who played both guard positions when needed—and Nijman’s ability to fill in at either tackle spot. Mays began as a reserve but ended up starting 12 games at center. Corbett started at all three interior positions during the second half of the season.
Looking ahead to 2026, several key players remain under contract: Ikem Ekwonu (LT), Damien Lewis (LG), Robert Hunt (RG), Taylor Moton (RT), Chandler Zavala (G), Nick Samac (C), Saahdiq Charles (G), Ja’Tyre Carter (G), and Joshua Gray (G). Unrestricted free agents include Corbett, Nijman, Mays, Christensen, and Curhan.
The team faces questions at center since both starters from last year are set to enter free agency. Nick Samac could be an option but lacks experience on offense. With Mays approaching free agency younger and healthy, he may attract interest from other teams. Corbett brings versatility and leadership but has played only 20 games over three seasons due to injuries.
The Panthers may look to add younger depth through the draft given their current roster investments on the line. There is also uncertainty surrounding Ekwonu’s recovery from a torn patellar tendon sustained during the playoffs; his return timeline remains unclear.
As preparations continue for next season, addressing depth concerns and planning for potential absences will be priorities for Carolina’s front office.
The Carolina Panthers have secured multiple division titles and playoff appearances since joining the NFL as an expansion team in 1995. They represent both North and South Carolina with operations centered in Charlotte according to their official website. The organization emphasizes building a championship culture while engaging in community outreach across both states as detailed on their website.