He and Young both had stints leading the offense last season with neither leading Carolina to success. The Panthers have a strong investment in Young which means he will be given more opportunities than Dalton.

September, and Week 2 of the NFL season is underway. But some have an eye on April’s draft. Could the Panthers be interested in another Buckeye safety?

Panthers expect Ikem Ekwonu to return from injury absence and make his 2025 season debut in Week 2 against Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals announced a singular roster move on Saturday in preparation for their game on Sunday in Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers. With second-year tight end Tip Reiman ruled out of the game with a foot injury, they elevated tight end Josiah Deguara from the practice squad.

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) dives forward and eludes a tackle by Carolina Panthers linebacker Trevin Wallace (32) during the second quarter of an NFL football game between the Carolina Panthers at Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium Sunday September 7, 2025. / [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Panthers LT Ikem Ekwonu is expected to make his regular-season debut on Sunday against the Cardinals.