Panthers tackle Taylor Moton is expected to receive the franchise tag, as Ian Rapoport of NFL.com tweets. The possibility of a long-term deal remains, but it sounds like the Panthers will buy themselves some time by first using the tag, then negotiating between now and mid-July. 
Moton talked contract with Carolina brass ahead of last season, but things cooled off during the year. The Panthers want Moton for the long haul, but they’d also be comfortable with a one-year arrangement. A new deal would probably cost around $15MM — maybe a touch less, depending on where the salary cap lands.
Pro Football Focus has graded Moton as a top-20 tackle in each of the past three years. He came in as a top-five right tackle in 2020, providing all the more reason for the Panthers to retain him. They’ll definitely need Moton in place hope to land, and adequately protect, Deshaun Watson.
Moton, a 2017 second-round pick, has started 48 straight games at right tackle. The Panthers have until March 9 to make the call.