North Charlotte Today

Taylor Moton: Reliable ironman, grateful teammate, team dad

Sep 7, 2024

CHARLOTTE — Taylor Moton isn't particularly focused on milestones or historical context. For the 30-year-old Panthers right tackle, the most important step is always the next one. He prefers discussing others' careers over his own.

As Moton approaches his 100th consecutive start for the Panthers—a franchise record—he remains nonchalant about the achievement. "Not too much," he said when asked if he had considered the importance of his streak. "I'm more of an on to the next one, get ready for the next day, next game kind of guy, right?"

Since becoming a starter at the beginning of the 2018 season, Moton has played 6,507 offensive plays consecutively without missing a snap. He acknowledges this with modesty: "I mean, I guess it means a lot," he said. "I know I'm just happy I could be healthy for the team and do whatever I can for my teammates."

Moton's streak surpasses those of notable players such as Browns Hall of Fame tackle Joe Thomas and former Panthers players like Mike Minter and Jordan Gross. Veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson expressed admiration for Moton's consistency: "That lets you know what type of player he is...He's going out there and he's giving it all for his team and his brothers."

Guard Brady Christensen echoed these sentiments: "He's a perfect example of just being a pro...It's incredible." Long snapper JJ Jansen also praised Moton's resilience despite their different roles on the field.

Moton attributes part of his success to the Panthers' athletic training staff. He specifically mentioned athletic training intern Dean Puranovic as instrumental in maintaining his health.

Assistant athletic trainer Katy Rogers noted that while Moton expresses gratitude often, it's usually accompanied by a sweaty hug after practice.

Christensen emphasized Moton's consistent routine and leadership qualities: "Like he's just the same guy day in and day out...It's amazing." Jansen added that maintaining leadership while playing at a high level is challenging but indicative of who Moton is.

Despite his achievements, getting Moton to talk about himself remains difficult. He quietly occupies his corner in the locker room and thanks anyone who stops by with questions.

Moton’s maturity has been evident since college where he learned to stay present-focused from his coach. Reflecting on his career so far, he said: "Would I ever thought I'd be doing it? I don't know sometimes. But it's a blessing."

He credits former teammates like Daryl Williams, Ryan Kalil, Luke Kuechly, Julius Peppers, Thomas Davis, Greg Olsen, and Cam Newton for teaching him how to be a professional athlete.

Although humble about his contributions, Moton's impact on the team is undeniable. As Thompson put it: "It shows you a lot; it just shows you that he's the guy."