Panthers right tackle Taylor Moton is officially back at practice after doctors found multiple blood clots in his right lung, a huge emotional shot in the arm for a team that’s been battling a ton of injuries. This isn’t just some sprained ankle; this dude was dealing with something life-threatening, and now he’s gearing up to play ball.
The Terrifying Road Back From a Health Scare
Let’s be real, this whole situation sounds absolutely terrifying. Moton, who’s 32, first felt symptoms way back in late June after he got back to Charlotte from hosting a youth football camp in Michigan. He was feeling chest congestion and then, chillingly, started coughing up blood. Can you even imagine that? He immediately hit the hospital, and after a battery of tests, doctors found multiple blood clots in his right lung. On top of that, his blood pressure was dangerously high. They put him on blood thinners right away, and Panthers team physician Dr. Nancy Gritter told him straight up it would be months before he’d be cleared for any contact. That meant missing training camp, the preseason, and the start of the regular season. He even quoted her saying, “This means no taking on bull rushes from Nic Scourton,” which just tells you how serious it was. No ball for a bit. Moton said he never once thought about retirement, though, and he was cleared for contact this week by doctors who are still going to keep an eye on him. He’s off the blood thinners now, but he called the whole experience “scary” and said he’s focused on preventing it from happening again, staying “extra hydrated” and moving around when he flies.
Moton’s Return Brings Crucial Stability and Energy
This guy is a picture of consistency. Taylor Moton has been an absolute rock for the Panthers for nine seasons, playing in 145 out of a possible 146 games and starting all but one game over the last eight years. Only Jordan Gross has more starts on the offensive line in team history. That kind of stability is something you just can’t buy. The Panthers certainly need him back too, especially with rookie right tackle Monroe Freeling, who started the first four games, currently dealing with a knee injury. Coach Dave Canales even called Moton “the fun uncle” of the team, and you can tell from the energy he brings. On Tuesday, the team opened the 21-day practice windows for Moton, defensive tackle Turk Wharton (who’s coming back from neck surgery in May), and running back Trevor Etienne. Wide receiver Jalen Coker also rejoined the team after the bye week, having missed their Week 4 win over the Detroit Lions with a quad injury. Canales specifically called out the “infectious” energy Moton and Wharton brought to practice, saying “the energy of it was right, the spirit of it was right.” Moton himself said he had to weigh the pros and cons of getting off the blood thinners to play, but decided to take the risk. “I love the sport and I love being in the locker room with the guys,” he said. “I’m just happy I was able to get back to work.”
Moton is already preparing like he’s going to play this Sunday against the Philadelphia Eagles. Talk about a comeback story! It’s awesome to see him back on the field, and his presence is a massive boost for the Panthers as they look ahead to their next game.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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