Carolina Panthers lineman Taylor Moton overcame bloody, life-threatening episode and now he's back at practice

Maine News Now

Carolina Panthers lineman Taylor Moton recovering after life‑threatening lung clot

The Carolina Panthers are preparing to bring back offensive lineman Taylor Moton after a frightening medical emergency that left him fighting for his life. Moton, 32, was hospitalized last month when he coughed up blood and was found to have numerous clots in his right lung. He was placed on the non‑football injury list in July, but has recently returned to practice in Charlotte and is working toward full game‑ready fitness.

Moton, who had been training as a patient rather than a player during his recovery, described the moment he realized something was wrong. “I was just hanging out about to take a nap, lay down, and all of sudden it started to feel like my chest was really congested,” he told reporters at the locker room. He added that he began tasting blood in his mouth and that the coughing became heavy. “After about 15 minutes I knew I had to go to the hospital.”

Doctors at the hospital performed a CT scan and an ultrasound that revealed “a multitude of clots in my right lung.” The cause of the clotting episode remains unclear, Moton said, and the team has had to manage his condition with blood‑thinning medication. He cautioned that contact while on anticoagulants could increase the risk of a brain bleed.

“Moton’s goal is to get back into football shape in the next 21 days,” the Panthers’ medical staff said. “The team needs him on the offensive line as injuries pile up.”

Moton is optimistic about his recovery and grateful for the chance to return. “Honestly, it gave me more gratitude for life in general,” he said. “It makes you count your blessings. I’m still on this side of Earth and I get to see my family again.”

The Panthers will monitor Moton’s progress closely as the team’s offensive line continues to deal with injuries. If he can meet the physical standards in the allotted time, he is expected to be activated for the upcoming season.