Austin Corbett’s Tough Journey: What’s Next for the Panthers’ Resilient Lineman?

CHARLOTTE — For Carolina Panthers offensive lineman Austin Corbett, the last three seasons have been a test of resilience, patience, and perseverance. After suffering three consecutive season-ending injuries, the veteran lineman faces an uncertain offseason as he enters free agency.

While Corbett’s desire to remain with the Panthers is evident, his injury history raises questions about his future in Charlotte and whether the organization will continue to invest in a player who has endured so much physical hardship.

A String of Unfortunate Setbacks

Corbett’s string of injuries began in the 2022 season finale when he tore his ACL in what was technically not a season-ending injury but would have been had it occurred earlier. After an arduous rehabilitation, Corbett returned midway through the 2023 season but played just four games before tearing his MCL in the same knee during Week 11.

Determined to bounce back, Corbett worked diligently in the offseason, transitioning seamlessly from guard to center. However, his hard work met another cruel twist of fate when he ruptured a biceps tendon during a game against Chicago, prematurely ending his 2024 campaign.

A Free Agent in Limbo

Now an unrestricted free agent, Corbett’s injury history looms large as the Panthers weigh their options. While Corbett has proven his skill and versatility when healthy, his availability remains a significant concern.

ESPN’s NFL insider Dan Graziano believes that Corbett’s on-field contributions warrant consideration despite the risks.

“Though the Carolina roster doesn’t have many free agents who simply must be re-signed, Corbett has played well enough to deserve a new deal,” Graziano noted. “No matter what the Panthers do at quarterback, maintaining and adding to the offensive line should be a priority moving forward.”

Corbett’s Commitment to the Panthers

If it were up to Corbett, his future would be in Carolina. Speaking during his exit interview, he expressed his unwavering affection for the organization and the Queen City.

“Absolutely. I love it here. I love Charlotte,” Corbett said without hesitation. “My family has got good roots here. The more kids we start having, and the older they get, we don’t want to move them around. Would love to stay, but ultimately, just let the agent and the upstairs people work it out, we’ll find out.”

Corbett also reflected on his time with the Panthers, from the highs of winning a Super Bowl with the Rams to the challenges of helping rebuild Carolina’s offensive line.

“I wanted to be a part of the grind and helping young guys set a foundation of what it means to love the game of football and fight every single game,” he said. “Over these last couple weeks, just watching and seeing how guys handle adversity, and seeing what Dave (Canales) has done in his first year as a head coach, has been tremendous. Definitely want to be a part of it.”

What Lies Ahead?

As the Panthers evaluate their offseason strategy, Austin Corbett’s fate hangs in the balance. The team must decide whether to gamble on his potential or move forward with a younger, more durable option.

For Corbett, the offseason will be another test of his perseverance, but his dedication to the Panthers and the sport of football is unwavering. Whether he remains in Charlotte or starts a new chapter elsewhere, Corbett’s journey serves as a testament to the relentless spirit that defines the NFL’s toughest competitors.