Carolina Panthers sign rookie offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu to four-year deal

The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with their top pick from the 2022 NFL Draft rookie offensive tackle Ikem Ekwonu. According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Ekwonu and the Panthers have agreed to a four-year deal worth just over $27.5 million.

“It’s a 4-year deal worth $27,568,052 with a signing bonus of $17,229,492, source said. Fully guaranteed with a club option for year 5,” wrote Rapport via Twitter.

The former left tackle of the North Carolina State Wolfpack will remain close to home as he suits up for their professional team. The Panthers had Ekwonu pinned as the top overall player on their draft board. He looks to be a vital part of the Panthers’ rebuild of their offensive line from last season. Carolina struggled with injuries on their offensive line throughout the season. This led to constant hits on the quarterback, including starting quarterback, to start the season, Sam Darnold. Ekwonu will compete for the right to protect Darnold’s blindside this season and limit the number of hits the Panthers quarterback takes in 2022.

Why Ikem Ekwonu is a perfect fit for the Carolina Panthers

In a short amount of time, NC State All-American left tackle Ikem Ekwonu is set to become an instant millionaire. Ekwonu was selected with the sixth overall pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday evening by the Carolina Panthers.

Ekwonu is likely to sign a four-year deal worth $27.5 million with a $17.2 million signing bonus, all fully guaranteed. There will also be a fifth-year option for the Panthers. That would pay Ekwonu, at a minimum, a guaranteed amount calculated by the average of the third and 25th highest paid salaries at their respective position over the past five seasons.

That option year could be worth more if Ekwonu meets certain performance standards like a certain amount of playing time or making the Pro Bowl.

How likely is Ekwonu to meet those? In the case of playing time, an early viewing of the roster suggest he will have every opportunity.

Last season, Carolina ranked among the bottom 10 in the NFL in rushing yards per carry at 4.0. Note that in the NFL, unlike college, the stats do not include sack yardage lost. Any analysis of Ekwonu will fairly praise his ability as a run blocker.