NFL25 min ago2 minute read

Taylor Moton Carted Off as Panthers Suffer Major Injury Blow

Carolina Panthers right tackle Taylor Moton was carted off against Tampa Bay on Sunday after suffering a left ankle and fibula injury.

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Moton carted off in third quarter

The Carolina Panthers suffered a heavy blow on Sunday when right tackle Taylor Moton left the field on a cart. The veteran offensive lineman suffered a left ankle and fibula injury during the third quarter of the matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The play happened with 14:13 remaining in the third quarter. Tampa Bay pass rusher Yaya Diaby came through to sack quarterback Bryce Young. Moton went down on the play and immediately pounded the turf while holding his left leg.

Trainers ran onto the field right away to assess the situation. After examining his leg, they placed Moton on the back of a cart and brought him through the home tunnel for further medical evaluation.

Line adjustments after the injury

The team initially listed Moton as questionable to return. However, Carolina downgraded him to out before the third quarter came to an end.

First round pick Monroe Freeling stepped in at right tackle to take Moton's place. Freeling is familiar with the role, having filled in for Moton during the first four games of the season. The offensive line felt the disruption right away. On the very next play, left tackle Rasheed Walker gave up another sack to Diaby.

Longest tenured player on the roster

The injury comes as a harsh setback for the 32 year old tackle. Moton was playing in just his second game back after undergoing offseason treatment for blood clots. He has been on the field for only seven quarters of football so far this season.

Moton has been a reliable fixture for Carolina over the years. Selected in the second round of the 2017 draft, he has served as the starting right tackle for the past nine seasons. He currently holds the title of the longest tenured non specialist on the Panthers roster.

Contractually, Moton is signed with the franchise through the 2028 season. However, the 2027 season is the final year of his deal that includes guaranteed money.

What it means for the next game

Carolina Panthers at Green Bay Packers (NFL, Fri, 30 Oct): Green Bay Packers win 53%, Carolina Panthers win 47%; projected score Green Bay Packers 24, Carolina Panthers 22. Our safest pick: Under 54.5 points.