Carolina Panthers draft Georgia tackle Monroe Freeling 

GEORGIA ATHLETICS

The Carolina Panthers drafted former Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling with the 19th pick of the NFL Draft on April 23, 2026.

Dan Morgan enjoyed an easy NFL draft night. 

While the Carolina Panthers general manager prepared for a possible chaotic experience in his war room at Bank of America Stadium, Morgan found himself sitting back and “let the picks come to us.” 

Waiting at No. 19 overall Thursday night, Morgan discovered the opening round started “falling our way.” With needs at offensive line, safety and edge, Morgan targeted a “couple of guys.” 

When the Panthers’ first-round pick arrived, Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling “was there at our pick and we we’re sure he would be there,” Morgan said. “It was an easy pick for us.” 

Freeling entered the draft as the No. 2-rated tackle and 14th overall prospect, according to ESPN. 

Freeling reinforces offensive line 

The Panthers’ need to bolster the offensive line’s depth remained a prime objective. With Ikem Ekwonu (ruptured patella tendon) expected to miss at least half of the 2026 season, Morgan inked free agent Rasheed Walker to a one-year deal. Freeling, who started only 17 games for Georgia, could slowly move into a rotational role in 2026. 

The Panthers brass didn’t seem overly concerned with his relative inexperience, focusing instead on his measurables, which include “34-inch arms and huge hands,” Morgan said. 

“To get a guy that’s 21 years old and for all intents and purposes hasn’t fully grow into his body completely and (he’s) already 6-7?” Panthers coach Dave Canales said. “He’s going to settle into some good football.” 

Canales is eager to get Freeling into the offseason program that will allow the coaching staff to start molding him into a possible replacement for right tackle Taylor Moton. Rookie minicamp is scheduled for May 8-10. 

The draft continues with the second and third rounds Friday, with the final four rounds scheduled for Saturday.

“You always like to have guys with more games, more experience,” Canales said. “Having a guy that has limited starts, you get a chance to imprint our style, our philosophy, our techniques and drills. There's a give and take there.” 

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