NFL
Panthers Lose Taylor Moton to Season-Ending Ankle Surgery
Carolina must replace its veteran right tackle after Moton fractured his left fibula against Tampa Bay.
Taylor Moton’s season is over after the Carolina Panthers right tackle suffered an ankle injury in Sunday’s 43–13 loss to Tampa Bay. The injury requires surgery, according to Monday’s NFL injury update.
Reuters reported that Moton fractured his left fibula early in the third quarter when a teammate fell across his legs. He left the field on a cart. Rookie Monroe Freeling took over at right tackle.
The setback came in Moton’s second game since returning from a blood-clot issue. His absence creates another change to the protection group as Carolina tries to recover from the lopsided defeat.
For the Panthers, the immediate question is how to organize the right side of the line around the available personnel. Freeling’s work in relief identifies the first replacement used Sunday; it does not establish a permanent lineup decision for every remaining game. The club’s next practice reports and coaching announcements will clarify that plan.
