After training with Panthers OT Nate Chandler the past two summers, Hall of Fame LT Jackie Slater claimed "there's no doubt in my mind he's a top left tackle." A converted defensive tackle, 25-year-old Chandler made eight 2013 starts, six at guard and two at right tackle. He's now battling Byron Bell to start on Cam Newton's blind side. "He's mentally equipped to solve problems, and that's what you have to do to play offensive tackle in this league," said Slater, a seven-time Pro Bowler who's now the OL coach at Azusa Pacific University. "He's going to be a good offensive lineman in the National Football League for a very long time."

Panthers signed OT Nate Chandler to a three-year contract extension through 2017. Chandler was entering the final year of his entry-level UDFA rookie deal. He was under team control for two more seasons, but the Panthers have high hopes for the former tight end-turned-defensive tackle-turned-offensive lineman. Chandler has been splitting reps with Byron Bell both at left and right tackle and is fully expected to man one of the positions this season. He played both tackles spots and right guard in 2013. Carolina wants to continue to develop him.

Nate Chandler and Byron Bell are splitting first-team reps at left tackle at Panthers OTAs. Chandler, a former college tight end-turned- defensive tackle-turned-NFL offensive lineman, is the better athlete and might profile better on the left side. He played 590 snaps on offense last season, working at both tackle spots and right guard. Chandler's game needs to be tuned and refined, but he has good hands and feet. It may be best to continue to keep Bell on the right side.

Nate Chandler currently sits atop the Panthers' depth chart at right tackle. Chandler went to UCLA as a tight end before switching to defensive line late in his collegiate career. The Panthers then moved him to offensive line ahead of last season. Chandler ended up playing 590 offensive snaps at left tackle, right tackle, and right guard in 2013. He got destroyed in pass protection but proved to be a decent run blocker. Veteran Garry Williams will compete with Chandler.

The Panthers are moving DT Nate Chandler to offensive line. Chandler (6-foot-5, 290) went to UCLA as an offensive lineman/tight end before switching to defense as a junior. He appeared in ten games for the Panthers last season, making six tackles. After Carolina beefed up its defensive line in the draft, Chandler is trying to find a way to make the team.

Panthers promoted DT Nate Chandler from their practice squad.