The Panthers saw their three-game winning streak come to an end on Sunday. Several offensive linemen were injured along the way, including Brady Christensen. 
A return this season is unlikely to take place in this case. When speaking after the game, head coach Dave Canales said (via Joe Person of The Athletic) Christensen is feared to have suffered an Achilles tear. Provided that is confirmed by further testing, he will be sidelined for the remainder of the campaign.
Christensen was carted off the field during Carolina’s game against Buffalo. The fifth-year veteran was in the midst of starting for the fourth consecutive game at right guard when he suffered the injury. Christensen missing the rest of the season would deal another blow to a Panthers O-line which was already shorthanded.
First-choice right guard Robert Hunt suffered a torn biceps last month, creating a vacancy at that position. That ailment could prove to be season-ending, in any case Hunt is not in position to the lineup any time soon. Christensen took over from Hunt in Week 4 and then played every snap for each of the following three games. That setup was set to continue, but now another change up front will be necessary.
Over the course of his rookie contract, Christensen made 51 appearances and 30 starts. The former third-rounder was limited to just one contest in 2023 but otherwise he managed to avoid major injuries. Christensen re-signed on a one-year pact this spring, but today’s news will obviously hinder his market value. He will look to recover in time for the start of the 2026 campaign; especially if that does not take place, the 29-year-old could remain unsigned for an extended period.
In the wake of today’s lopsided loss, the Panthers sit at 4-4 on the year. The team’s rushing attack will continue to be leaned on moving forward, particularly if quarterback Bryce Young misses any further time. With another lengthy absence up front likely, though, it will be challenging to remain among the league’s best in that regard.