Panthers select Georgia tackle Monroe Freeling at 19th pick
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Charlotte, N.C. Monroe Freeling, a 6-foot-7, 315-pound offensive tackle from Georgia, was selected by the Carolina Panthers with the 19th overall pick of the NFL Draft on April 23, 2026. The pick followed his three-year college tenure that included multiple starts and combine testing in February, and it adds a first-round lineman to Carolina’s depth chart.
The Panthers say the selection addresses instability at tackle as veteran Ickey Ekwonu recovers from patellar tendon surgery and creates competition with free-agent Rasheed Walker; general manager Dan Morgan called Freeling the best player on the board. This week the team will integrate Freeling into minicamp plans and evaluate his fit at left and right tackle during OTAs.
More context
Timeline
- 1. 2023: Freeling ranked a top recruit nationally and enrolled at Georgia.
- 2. 2024-2025: Grew into a multi-year starter for Georgia, allowing nine pressures in 2025.
- 3. February 2026: Participated in NFL Combine; recorded a 4.93 40-yard dash and notable jumps.
- 4. April 23, 2026: Selected 19th overall by the Carolina Panthers in the NFL Draft.
- 5. April–May 2026: Panthers announce Freeling will compete for tackle starts while integrating into offseason program.
Why it matters
If you're a Panthers fan, this is big. Freeling's selection could stabilize the team's tackle position. He's a top talent, and his addition could improve the Panthers' offensive line. Keep an eye on his progress during the offseason.
Sources
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