5 Carolina Panthers players with big shoes to fill in 2022
By Dean Jones
Ikem Ekwonu – Carolina Panthers OT
- Shoes to fill – Jordan Gross
Ever since All-Pro left tackle Jordan Gross retired following the 2013 season, it’s been a carousel of failed blindside protectors for the Carolina Panthers. Something that’s held the team back in crunch moments and simply had to be addressed as a matter of urgency this offseason.
After choosing not to land any of the marquee free agents, fans were clamoring for Carolina to select one of the top-tier tackle prospects from the college ranks. There was talk of reaching for one of the quarterbacks, but once Ikem Ekwonu fell out of the top five, it was a gift that the Panthers couldn’t refuse.
Ekwonu was the No. 1 player on Carolina’s board, and with good reason. His run blocking is nothing short of extraordinary and if he can work on some technical issues in pass protection, the North Carolina State product has all the makings of a franchise left tackle.
This is something the Panthers have craved for what seems like an age. But after witnessing Cam Erving and others fold in 2021, fans now have real hope.
It’s hard to root against a guy like Ekwonu. The man with the million-dollar smile turns into a human wrecking ball each and every gameday, which will make him an instant favorite with those watching from the stands at Bank of America Stadium.