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Charlotte tackle Taylor Moton sidelined by lung clot

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CHARLOTTE, North Carolina, The Carolina Panthers said Tuesday that starting right tackle Taylor Moton will miss all of training camp and at least the opening portion of the 2026 NFL regular season after being placed on the reserve/non-football injury list. The team said Moton was diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung in late June and was immediately placed on a course of blood thinners, a standard treatment that prevents players from taking part in physical contact. According to the Panthers’ medical staff, Moton is responding well to the medication and is undergoing daily evaluations at the team’s training facility, but the club has not set a target date for his return to game action. Moton’s absence leaves a significant gap on Carolina’s offensive line as the team begins preparations for the new season. Since being drafted by the Panthers in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, he has developed into one of the franchise’s most durable and consistent players, starting 128 of the 145 games he has played. He started all 16 games at right tackle during the 2025 season, lining up opposite left tackle Ikem Ekwonu and anchoring the edge of the line. Moton, a 10-year veteran whose contract has been restructured several times to help manage the salary cap, is considered a key figure in the Panthers’ efforts to stabilize their offense.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2017 Moton drafted by Carolina in second round
2017–2025 Becomes Panthers’ most durable lineman
Late June 2026 Lung blood clot diagnosed, treatment begins
Late June 2026 Placed on blood thinner regimen
Early July 2026 Undergoes daily medical evaluations
Tuesday 2026 Panthers place Moton on NFI list
Training camp 2026 Expected to miss entire camp
Start of 2026 season Set to miss opening games

Why This Matters to You

Moton's absence could impact the Panthers' offensive line, possibly affecting the team's performance. If you're a fan, this could mean a tough start to the season. Keep an eye on how the team adjusts their strategy.

The Bottom Line

Health comes first, even in the NFL. Moton's situation is a reminder that players are not invincible. It's a game of waiting and hoping for his recovery now. Worth forwarding if you know a Panthers fan who might be wondering about the team's upcoming season.