(AP Photo/Scott Kinser)
The Carolina Panthers suffered a significant setback on the opening day of training camp after second-year outside linebacker Nic Scourton sustained a torn ACL in his right knee, according to NFL Network.
Scourton is expected to seek a second opinion, but the injury could sideline one of Carolina’s top young pass rushers for the entire 2026 season.
Major Blow to Panthers’ Defense
Scourton was expected to play a key role opposite free-agent addition Jaelan Phillips after an impressive rookie campaign.
The injury occurred late in Thursday’s practice on a wet field during team drills. Players immediately surrounded Scourton after he went down, and he was later carted off with his hand covering his face.
In a touching moment, head coach Dave Canales and every Panthers player walked over to embrace Scourton before he was taken to the training room.
“They care about each other,” Canales said. “Whenever you’re in a group of people doing something hard together, it has a way of creating a special bond.”
Scourton Was Emerging as a Defensive Leader
Scourton appeared in all 17 games as a rookie, making eight starts while recording 47 tackles, five sacks and nine quarterback hits.
His development into a reliable starter made him a key piece of Carolina’s defensive plans entering the new season.
Quarterback Bryce Young praised Scourton’s leadership and relentless energy following the injury.
“It’s been really cool to see him come into his own. He has a super-high motor, has great energy. He’s fun to be around. He turns into that different competitor when he’s on the field.”
Young added that the team was “just praying for him.”
Panthers Confident in Defensive Depth
Although losing Scourton would leave a significant void in the pass rush, Canales expressed confidence in the team’s depth.
“We’ve got depth. That’s why we keep bringing in guys. If it comes to that, we have guys that we trust.”
The Panthers will now await Scourton’s second medical opinion before determining the next steps, but the injury threatens to derail what appeared to be a breakout second NFL season for the talented edge rusher.
