The Carolina Panthers had a no-brainer decision to make where Ikem Ekwonu's fifth-year option was concerned this offseason.
After the left tackle bounced back with a much-improved campaign, general manager Dan Morgan's choice was simple. Another surge forward from Ekwonu in 2025 could see a lucrative contract extension come his way sooner rather than later.
And one notable development around the NFL is unlikely to go unnoticed by Ekwonu's representatives when the time comes to begin negotiations.
Rashawn Slater, the edge protector that Matt Rhule didn't believe was capable of becoming a successful NFL tackle due to his short arms, got a new four-year extension from the Los Angeles Chargers.