The Carolina Panthers boast one of the stronger offensive lines in the NFL, with left tackle playing a key role in that success. A first-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft out of North Carolina, He had a rocky start but has become more dependable with experience. He earned a 71.7 grade from Pro Football Focus last season, ranking 36th among 81 qualified tackles. While he may not be on a Hall of Fame path, he’s a solid starter at a premium position and is likely to see a pay bump once his rookie deal ends.
That said, it’s unclear which team will ultimately give him that raise. The Panthers exercised his fifth-year option, but that doesn’t guarantee a contract extension anytime soon. In a recent interview, Ikem Ekwonu acknowledged that the timeline for a new deal remains uncertain.
“I really don’t have a timeline,” he said. “I’ll let my agent and Dan handle those conversations… everyone involved knows I want to stay in Carolina for the long haul. Hopefully, we’ll make that happen.”
Panthers Ikem Ekwonu Has “No Timeline” For Possible Extension
Ikem Ekwonu says he wants to join the Panthers, but the lack of contract talks is troubling. Carolina has done a fantastic job of extending homegrown players in recent years, so their first-round choice will most likely be able to stay on a second contract. However, if they determine he is not a part of the team’s future, several organizations may compete for the opportunity to sign a young starting tackle.
Potential Destinations
Houston Texans
The Texans arguably had the worst offensive line in the NFL last season. Despite leading the team to the playoffs, C.J. Stroud couldn’t fully replicate the brilliance of his rookie campaign in 2024. If Houston wants him to become a long-term franchise quarterback, they must address the line more aggressively. Second-round selection Aireontae Ersery is a solid addition, but he alone can’t overhaul the entire unit. Stroud has shown he struggles when under pressure, and acquiring someone like Ikem Ekwonu from Carolina could be the key to unlocking his full capabilities.
Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City addressed their left tackle problem by selecting Josh Simmons in the first round, but concerns remain on the right side. Jawaan Taylor, a high-priced free agent, has underperformed and ranked among the league’s worst right tackles since joining the team. Although releasing him this year isn’t financially viable, the Chiefs could look to part ways in 2026. If Carolina is still uncertain about Ekwonu’s future, Kansas City might pursue him via trade—provided he’s open to transitioning to right tackle.
San Francisco 49ers
While Trent Williams will suit up for at least one more season, the veteran left tackle is nearing the end of his storied career. Williams has set the benchmark at the position for over a decade, making his eventual replacement a significant challenge. Though Ikem Ekwonu doesn’t quite measure up to Williams’ elite standard, he could step in as a reliable starter and help safeguard Brock Purdy in the long term.
