Panthers Would Still Draft a Tackle in Freeling Do-Over

Carolina’s choice of Monroe Freeling with the 19th pick has not produced the early results the Panthers needed, and a re-do would still send the team after an offensive tackle. In a revised first-round selection, the Panthers take Max Iheanachor, who was originally chosen a few picks later by Pittsburgh.

Freeling entered the draft viewed as a developmental prospect, but injuries pushed him into action. He has often appeared unready for the role, and the assessment of his play is worsened by the struggles of fellow tackle Rasheed Walker.

Iheanachor, by contrast, did not start immediately for the Steelers. He later worked his way into the lineup and became a starter. His progress and impact on Pittsburgh’s offensive line made him the preferred option in the re-do.

The Panthers’ need at tackle was clear, particularly after Taylor Moton was sidelined and then suffered another absence seven quarters after returning. Carolina could not have anticipated that sequence, but selecting a reserve tackle proved useful in retrospect.

There were few other first-round players viewed as clearly better immediate choices. Dillon Thieneman was identified as a possible alternative, while Carolina is likely pleased with its selection of Zakee Wheatley. Freeling may still develop into the player the Panthers hoped to draft, but for now the team is dealing with the consequences of having to play him before he was ready.