Panthers not planning on 'redshirt' season for OT Monroe Freeling

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Panthers not planning on 'redshirt' season for OT Monroe Freeling originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik made his intentions clear regarding first-round draft pick Monroe Freeling.

The rookie offensive tackle should not expect to have a "redshirt" season.

With Ikem Ekwonu (torn patellar tendon) undergoing rehabilitation, Panthers general manager Dan Morgan signed veteran free agent Rasheed Walker to a team-friendly, one-year, $4 million deal and drafted Freeling with the No. 19 overall selection.

Walker appears to be the early leader to start at left tackle, working with the No. 1 offensive unit throughout much of Tuesday's offseason-training activities (OTAs) opener at the rainy practice fields behind Bank of America Stadium.

But don't count out Freeling.

"We're just excited about the competition those guys have both bought into," Idzik said during Tuesday's teleconference. "We'll let it all play out as we go throughout the preseason."

OC Brad Idzik: Panthers rookie Monroe Freeling will not 'redshirt' in 2026​

With Walker getting the first shot at guarding quarterback Bryce Young's blindside, Freeling, who started just 17 games at Georgia and may need additional seasoning, shifted from left to right tackle, gaining experience on both flanks.

The Panthers understand the assets of fielding versatile offensive linemen. Last season, coach Dave Canales started 12 different offensive-line groups.

"A lot of uncontrolled variables pop up where you gotta play guys at different spots," said Idzik, who will assume the primary play-calling duties this season. "We have a lot of different mixtures as you go throughout the season. I think cross-training for all our guys is invaluable.

"Yeah, we got (Freeling) in at right (tackle) a little bit (Tuesday). He worked both."

More NFL news:​

• Bryce Young puts Panthers' receivers on OTAs notice with 'colorful language'
• Is Panthers' Jonathon Brooks healthy enough to serve as RB2?
• Panthers' Feleipe Franks returns, adding versatility, spark to special teams
• Panthers prep for OTAs, first look at new defensive investments

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