Panthers Lose Multiple Key Members of Offensive Line Due to Injury

The Carolina Panthers will place starting guard Robert Hunt and center Austin Corbett on injured reserve after both sustained significant injuries late in the fourth quarter of Sunday’s 27-22 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Hunt is scheduled to undergo surgery on his left biceps, a procedure that coach Dave Canales noted on Monday usually ends a player's season. This is a severe blow for the Panthers, as Hunt played a crucial role in solidifying the offensive line last year.

Canales also disclosed that Corbett suffered a Grade 3 MCL injury to the same left knee on which he had previously undergone MCL and ACL surgeries in 2022 and 2023. A Grade 3 MCL injury means a full tear of the ligament, with treatment options varying from physical therapy and rest to surgery, often requiring recovery periods exceeding six weeks. Considering Corbett’s medical background and the seriousness of this injury, his absence is likely to significantly affect the team’s interior line.

Hunt, coming off his first Pro Bowl season, was signed as a free agent last year to strengthen the offensive line—a goal he achieved successfully. With the addition of him and left guard Damien Lewis, the Panthers markedly enhanced their pass protection, cutting sacks allowed from 65 in 2023 to just 26 last season. In response, Chandler Zavala has stepped in as Hunt’s replacement at guard, while Cade Mays will assume Corbett’s role at center. Coach Canales confirmed this will be their strategy as they prepare for the upcoming game against the Atlanta Falcons. Mays is familiar with the position, having filled in for Corbett at center last season after Corbett tore his biceps tendon.