Chandler Zavala Inching Closer to Returning to Action

The Panthers' rookie offensive lineman is close to working his way back to the field.

Right now, it's a two-man battle at right guard between Cade Mays and the veteran Justin McCray. That'll change relatively soon as fourth-round draft pick Chandler Zavala will throw his hat into the ring potentially within the next week.

Zavala was drafted to play next to Ikem Ekwonu at left guard but with Austin Corbett set to miss the beginning of the regular season, all of the competition needs to be concentrated on filling his void. 

The NC State product has been dealing with a strained pec since OTAs but according to head coach Frank Reich, he's getting really close to taking the practice field.

"He's making good progress. Actually, I think he's made really good progress in the last couple days. We're really eager to see him get back out there. He can really help us, but we don't want to rush it. You got to be smart. Talking to our medical team this morning, maybe see him out on the field doing a little bit of something maybe later in the week or early next week."

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