6 Carolina Panthers players who must be off the trade table in 2022
By Dean Jones
Taylor Moton – Carolina Panthers OT
The offensive line was nothing short of embarrassing for the Carolina Panthers last season. Some significant worries entering the campaign were realized with almost no true consistency in running support or pass protection, which should result in another major overhaul in personnel this offseason.
Although there was a lot of doom and gloom surrounding this unit, one bright spot remained. Taylor Moton was once again exceptional overall despite the odd blip in production, leaving no doubt that Carolina made the right call by handing the former second-round pick a four-year, $71.24 million deal with a $15 million signing bonus and $49.6 million guaranteed last year.
Moton was an ever-present once again, turning out in all 1,149 snaps on offense. The Western Michigan product conceded five penalties and gave up one sack for an impressive 77.5 grade from Pro Football Focus, cementing his status as an indispensable member of the roster and a franchise cornerstone.
NFL teams always get a bit cheeky when in a position of leverage. And someone like the Houston Texans could demand Moton be included in any deal for Deshaun Watson, for example.
However, the Panthers should avoid this at all costs. Besides, the chances of Watson or Russell Wilson waiving their no-trade clause if Carolina trades their best offensive lineman is absolutely out of the question.