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Panthers' Ekwonu Injured, Game Impacted by Key Losses

1/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Ikem Ekwonu, the Panthers' starting left tackle, suffered a knee injury in the first quarter of the playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams while blocking Rams linebacker Josaiah Stewart.
He was carted off the field and ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Yosh Nijman replaced him at left tackle, and guard Robert Hunt is questionable to return with a pectoral injury.

History

Historical Context

The NFL's focus on player safety intensified after quarterback Joe Theismann's severe injury in 1985, which coincided with a 50% rise in injuries for the Washington Redskins that season. This historical context resonates today as injuries like Ikem Ekwonu's during the playoffs continue to spotlight the ongoing risks players face, prompting evolving safety protocols and rule changes within the league.

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Story summary

Ikem Ekwonu, the Panthers' starting left tackle, suffered a knee injury in the first quarter of the playoff loss to the Los Angeles Rams while blocking Rams linebacker Josaiah Stewart.
He was carted off the field and ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Yosh Nijman replaced him at left tackle, and guard Robert Hunt is questionable to return with a pectoral injury.

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