NFL exec names Panthers' under-the-radar signing among top offseason moves

[ASFN Admin]

The Carolina Panthers have generally received positive reviews on their two big free-agent signees of 2026. Although their mega-deal with Jaelan Phillips has been met with a tad of skepticism, the acquisitions of the 27-year-old pass rusher and Pro Bowl linebacker Devin Lloyd have headlined yet another strong offseason.

But now, the Panthers are finally getting some recognition for another signing that could pay off quite handsomely for them.

According to ESPN, one anonymous AFC executive believes Carolina's low-cost addition of left tackle Rasheed Walker is among the very best moves of the offseason. Senior NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler notes the quote:

"Carolina capitalized on a suppressed market by signing Walker to a one-year, $4 million contract that carries an additional $6 million in incentives, a deal that shocked many around the league. "Nobody was paying him $20 million [a year], but no way I thought it would be that low," an AFC executive said. "Capable tackles usually get way more than that. That's a great deal for Carolina. I'm thinking many teams would have done that deal."

For now, Walker seems to top the depth chart on the blindside, assuming that usual starter Ikem Ekwonu is not fully recovered from his torn patellar tendon come Week 1. He'll be competing for the job against 2026 first-round pick Monroe Freeling, who isn't exactly a long shot to win the competition himself.

Regardless, signing Walker was a sharp move from a front office that needed to show some real urgency regarding their offensive line. At worst, they have themselves a premium backup at a premium position for a not-so-premium price.

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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: NFL exec named Panthers' Rasheed Walker signing among best 2026 moves

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