Panthers coach Canales on Ekwonu's recovery: "Hopefully, we can get him back out there."

The Carolina Panthers face uncertainty at left tackle as Ickey Ekwonu recovers from an emergency appendectomy.

Why it matters: Ekwonu's absence could significantly impact the Panthers' offensive line stability just days ahead of their season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 7. The left tackle position is critical for protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game, especially in an offense that may rely heavily on both.

What’s new: Ekwonu, the sixth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, underwent surgery after experiencing stomach pain.

• Coach Dave Canales stated that Ekwonu's status is day-to-day, highlighting the unpredictable nature of recovery from such procedures.
• The team remains hopeful about his potential return to practice before the season opener.

Yes, but: While optimism surrounds Ekwonu's recovery, the reality of a starting lineman's absence looms large.

• If he cannot play, the Panthers will lean on veteran Yosh Nijman, who has started four games over the past two seasons, including three last year.
• Brady Christensen, a guard-tackle hybrid, will also be utilized to fill the void if necessary, showcasing the team's depth at the position.

What to watch: The Panthers’ offensive strategy may shift based on the availability of Ekwonu.

• Without Ekwonu, the offensive line's performance will be under scrutiny, particularly in protecting quarterback Bryce Young as he navigates his rookie season.
• The effectiveness of the running game, which relies on cohesive line play, could also be impacted, affecting the overall offensive productivity.

Between the lines: Coach Canales emphasized the importance of patience in Ekwonu's recovery process.

• "We've seen these things turn around in a little over a week," he said, while acknowledging the variability in individual healing times.
• The team's cautious approach reflects a broader trend in the NFL toward prioritizing player health and long-term viability over short-term gains.

Zoom In: The decision to proceed cautiously with Ekwonu underscores the Panthers' commitment to building a solid foundation around their franchise quarterback.

• Protecting Young, especially early in his career, is paramount for both immediate success and future development.

The bottom line: As the Panthers prepare for the upcoming season, the health of Ickey Ekwonu remains a pivotal factor in their offensive strategy. The team's efforts to adapt in his absence will be closely monitored as they aim to start the season strong against the Jaguars.