Panthers' Nic Scourton believes in rookie Monroe Freeling's development

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Lining up during 11-on11 practice drills Tuesday, Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Nic Scourton lined up against rookie offensive tackle Monroe Freeling.

It wasn't much of a competition.

Utilizing a wide speed rush, Scourton raced past last April's No. 19 overall draft pick and reached out, but avoided making contact with quarterback Bryce Young. 

As Scourton performed a brief celebratory dance, Freeling stood and stared at the practice field grass for a moment, likely analyzing the technique that led to him getting beaten so badly.

With his arms, Freeling rehearsed a few arm movements that could have helped slow down the rush attempt.

Scourton remains confident that the former Georgia standout will not be beaten so swiftly in future NFL offseason-training activities (OTAs). 

"He's young," Scourton said during Tuesday's press conference. "I was going through the same growing pains as him. He's trying to find his way to go through the new techniques the coaches are teaching him (and) go through the playbook. 

"It's a lot."

Panthers seek long-term solutions along OL

The Panthers drafted Freeling last April to help bolster the offensive line as left tackle Ikem Ekwonu recovers from a knee injury. Veteran free agent Rasheed Walker was signed to a one-year deal to bridge Ekwonu's injury. Entering his fifth season, Ekwonu, who was in the early stages of negotiating a long-term deal when he suffered the injury during the NFC Wild Card Game last season, is expected to return at some point in 2026. 

Freeling, who will get work at left and right tackle this summer, could eventually replace Taylor Moton, who is entering his age-32 year.

"Man, I think Freeling's gonna be a really good piece for us," said Scourton, who tied defensive lineman Derrick Brown for the team lead with five sacks. "You don't get drafted in the first round on accident.

"The talent is there. The feet, the hands, he wins. So, I think Freeling's gonna be a really good piece and I hope we're here together for a little minute."

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