Dan Morgan, the general manager of the Carolina Panthers, has emphasized the organization’s dedication to maintaining the players they draft, as part of a broad strategy to build a strong future. Morgan stated, “We want to reward the guys that we draft. So, obviously we have to draft well, and hopefully we’ll pay those guys and I hope that happens. I hope we’re paying players for years to come because that means we’re drafting good and that that means we’re pinpointing the right guys.”
The Panthers recently reinforced this commitment by picking up the fifth-year option of offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu during the 2025 NFL Draft. This decision ensures Ekwonu, a first-round selection, will remain with the franchise through at least the 2025 season as discussions for a long-term contract continue. Ekwonu expressed his gratitude and optimism, stating, “All parties involved know I want to be here in Carolina long term. Hopefully, we can get that done. I’m definitely grateful and excited for this option.”
Ekwonu’s performance over the last three years has been consistently impressive. Despite an ankle injury in 2024, he has played in 49 games, significantly reducing his sacks allowed from 11 in 2023 to seven in 2024. Pro Football Focus ranked him 11th among 140 tackles in run blocking last season. Head coach Dave Canales noted, “I think Ickey showed us he’s a dominant run blocker…I think we got our left tackle. I love playing with having Ickey over there and having T-Mo (Taylor Moton) on the right side.”
Alongside Ekwonu, the offensive line has been bolstered by recent additions Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, alongside veterans Austin Corbett and Cade Mays. Ekwonu shared his thoughts on the cohesion within the team, saying, “I mean, I feel like it kind of just goes to show the confidence that the front office and everybody has in our group…just excited to have that bond grow more and more.”
As a Charlotte native, Ekwonu’s ties to the area are strong, reinforcing his desire to continue his career there. He concluded by expressing his aspirations for the team, stating, “I want to be here. I want to be part of the glory days in Carolina, and I feel like we’re right there on the precipice of it.”
