Georgia first-round pick named as rookie with the most to gain

Former Georgia Bulldogs star Monroe Freeling will play an essential role on the Carolina Panthers‘ offensive line throughout his rookie year in the NFL. The talented big man was originally selected by Carolina in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft in late April.

Freeling was excellent throughout his lone season as a starter in Athens. The former Bulldog was widely regarded as one of the top overall offensive lineman available on draft night, and Freeling was ultimately selected with the 19th overall pick. Bleacher Report’s Brett Sobleski recently listed the top six rookies in the NFL with the most to gain during training camp, and Freeling was the very first player mentioned on the list.

Freeling has both the talent and athleticism to start in the NFL as soon as Week 1. The rookie will play an essential role in protecting Panthers’ star quarterback Bryce Young in 2026, and Freeling will have a direct tie into Carolina’s overall success moving forward. Former Georgia quarterback Carson Beck was mentioned on Sobleski’s list as well, as Beck may emerge as the Arizona Cardinals’ starter should he begin to shine throughout training camp.

Both Freeling and Beck have a massive amount of potential entering their rookie seasons in the NFL. Freeling could cement himself as an essential piece on the Panthers’ offensive line for years to come, while Beck may prove to shine as the Cardinals starting quarterback in Arizona.