The Carolina Panthers have encountered significant challenges at the start of their 2026 training camp, including multiple player injuries and a new signing to address defensive needs. These developments come as the team aims to establish itself more firmly after winning the NFC South last season with an 8-9 record.
Injuries Impact Key Positions
During the first practice, second-year linebacker Nic Scourton sustained a non-contact injury, which was later identified as a torn ACL. This injury will sideline him for the entire season. Scourton had a notable rookie campaign, recording 47 tackles, 5.0 sacks, and 4 QB hits in eight starts. His absence is particularly impactful as he was expected to play a crucial role alongside free agent Jaelan Phillips, a player the Panthers invested in to enhance their pass rush.
Further complicating matters, veteran right tackle Taylor Moton has been diagnosed with a blood clot in his lung. This condition will place him on the PUP list at the beginning of the season. Rookie Monroe Freeling is tentatively planned to step into Moton’s position. The offensive line is already facing issues, with left tackle Ikem Ekwonu recovering from a ruptured patellar tendon suffered during the playoffs. General Manager Dan Morgan indicated that Ekwonu is expected to return “at some point this season,” though a specific timeline is not yet available.
Adding to the injury concerns, Pro Bowl cornerback Jaycee Horn is recovering from a foot injury that required stitches. He is anticipated to return to action soon. The issues along the offensive line and at edge rusher are particularly concerning for the team. The lack of continuity on the offensive line has been a recurring problem for quarterback Bryce Young since his arrival in Carolina, and these new setbacks further challenge the team’s stability.
Robert Hunt #50 of the Carolina Panthers warms up during the Carolina Panthers Training Camp at Carolina Panthers Practice Fields on July 23, 2026 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images) | Getty Images” width=”960″ height=”640″ />New Signing to Bolster Defense
In response to these challenges, the Panthers have signed outside linebacker Cam Gill. Gill, who previously played for Carolina in 2024, was named the United Football League’s Defensive Player of the Year after setting a new single-season sack record in the league. He contributed to the Louisville Kings’ run to become United Bowl champions.
Gill’s performance with the Kings also included 48 tackles. He last appeared in an NFL game in 2024, where he logged 22 tackles across 10 games for the Panthers. Gill has made 50 career NFL appearances with Tampa Bay and Carolina, accumulating 38 tackles, 2 1/2 sacks, and one forced fumble. He also won a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Gill is one of several players from the Kings to sign with NFL teams following their inaugural UFL season. Other Kings players who have joined NFL rosters include kicker Tanner Brown (Saints), wide receivers Tarik Black and Lucky Jackson (Detroit Lions), and running back Ian Wheeler (Buffalo Bills).
Upcoming Hall of Fame Game
The Panthers have just under two weeks before they are scheduled to face the Cardinals in the NFL Hall of Fame game. This game will provide an early opportunity for rotational players, who are now being called upon due to the recent injuries, to demonstrate their capabilities.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
