Panthers Draft Monroe Freeling: Local Talent, Line Protection

0:00On April 24th, the Carolina Panthers made a solid move Thursday night, grabbing University of Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling with a 19th overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. At 21 years old, this second team all SEC standout is already turning heads as a key addition to the line. General manager Dan Morgan called it a no-brainer, saying, Freeling was way too talented to let slide. Head coach Dave Canalis is pumped to bring him in and let him battle for a starting spot right away. Fans are lighting up social media with love for the pick, even if some admit drafting offensive lineman feels a bit basic. Plenty see it as a smart play to beef up the trenches and protect quarterback Bryce Young long-term. He's got that local flavor too, hailing from Charleston, which has hometown pride, buzzing. Folks are eyeing his upside as a future left tackle, especially with aging vets on the roster. As the draft rolls on, Morgan's got work to do building death for a playoff push next

1:00season, but starting with this foundation feels right for the rebuild. I'm Corey with the story. That's your NFL News Today update, AI powered and always on.