The Carolina Panthers just made a move that screams “we need bodies on the offensive line,” claiming offensive tackle Ryan Hayes off waivers from the Titans. This isn’t just another transaction; it’s a sign that Carolina is looking to shore up their depth, especially with some key players sidelined as training ramps up on July 24, 2026.
The Journey of Ryan Hayes
Ryan Hayes, at 26 years old, has been on quite the ride since entering the NFL. He was a seventh-round pick for the Dolphins back in 2023, coming out of Michigan with some potential. But the pro game is tough, and he’s bounced around a bit since then. He’s spent time with the Colts, had a second stint with the Dolphins, and was even on the Falcons’ practice squad just last season. Talk about a grind, right? This dude has seen a few locker rooms.
Here’s the kicker though: Hayes has only appeared in one game in his entire NFL career, and that was with the Dolphins in 2024. One game! That’s a crazy stat for a guy getting picked up this late in the preseason. It shows you the kind of urgency the Panthers are feeling to get talent on the field.
Why the Panthers Are Making Moves
So, why are the Panthers making a play for a guy with such limited NFL experience, especially after they already signed another offensive tackle, Derrell Bailey, earlier on Friday? The answer is pretty clear: they’re without some big names at a crucial position. Carolina is currently practicing without their starting tackles, Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton. That’s a massive hole to fill, and you can’t go into the season without capable guys stepping up.
This isn’t just about adding depth; it’s about finding anyone who can contribute when your top guys are out. You have to get fresh faces in there, get them reps, and see who can block. Waiving wide receiver Kobe Prentice to make room for Hayes tells you everything about the priority here. It’s a tough break for Prentice, but it really highlights how dire the tackle situation is for the Panthers right now. They’re making a calculated gamble on a player with raw talent and a hungry attitude.
What’s next for Ryan Hayes? He’s got a shot to prove that his one game in the NFL isn’t the end of his story. He’s gotta hit the ground running, learn the playbook fast, and compete his tail off. For the Panthers, they’re hoping Hayes, along with Bailey, can provide some much-needed stability and competition on that offensive line as they push deeper into their schedule. Every rep, every block, it all matters when you’re trying to build a winning team.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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