Panthers OL Ikem Ekwonu Suffers Torn Patellar Tendon, Could Miss 2026 Season

Panthers starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu suffered a torn patellar tendon in his right knee during the team's 34-31 Wild Card playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The injury, which occurred on the eighth offensive play, is season-ending and carries a projected recovery timeline of six to 12 months, potentially sidelining him for part or all of the 2026 season. Ekwonu, the 2022 first-round pick, allowed five sacks this season, and his injury forces the Panthers to re-evaluate their offensive line plans for the upcoming season.