Ikem Ekwonu is slated to return at left tackle for Carolina in Week 2 on the road vs. Arizona after an appendectomy sidelined him. His presence should stabilize Bryce Young’s protection, correcting Week 1’s rough showing when Yosh Nijman struggled and the quarterback was pressured into three turnovers. Ekwonu’s return also reshapes the Panthers’ line dynamics and adds heft to an offense that needs cleaner pockets.

Ekwonu’s long-term status hinges on his 2025-26 arc, as Carolina picked up his fifth-year option with a cap hit over $17.5 million. He’ll battle Cardinals newcomer Josh Sweat in a pivotal matchup, testing the Panthers’ ability to protect and unlock the passing game. Nijman and Christensen remain in the mix, but Ekwonu’s health is the linchpin for Week 2 and beyond.

Ikem Ekwonu's emergency appendectomy leaves Week 1 against Jacksonville in flux. If he can't go, Yosh Nijman would step in at left tackle, bringing 25 career starts and 3 in 2024 to Carolina's front. Ekwonu remains day-to-day, with healing timelines varying by individual.

Nijman’s presence could shape the Panthers’ protection and run game, while Adam Thielen’s target share could rise if protection tightens and the offense needs reliable quick-hit options. Carolina aims to preserve blocking chemistry for the Jaguars test.

Historically, Week 1 opens against Jacksonville carry significance for the franchise, with the 2003 and 2015 openers standing out as precursors to a Super Bowl run in those seasons.