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Panthers OL shake-up: Rookies eyed at center?
4 May
Summary
- Carolina's offensive line seeks stability at center.
- Rookies Sam Hecht and Monroe Freeling may start.
- O-line fell to 20th in PFF rankings last season.
Carolina Panthers' new general manager Dan Morgan has prioritized revamping the offensive line. Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt were signed to bolster the guard positions, joining established tackles Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton. However, the center position has seen considerable turnover since 2024, with Austin Corbett, Brady Christensen, and Cade Mays departing or unsigned.
NFL.com's Chad Reuter suggests Kansas State's Sam Hecht could compete for the starting center role as a rookie, citing his athleticism. While veteran Luke Fortner brings experience, Hecht is seen as a promising prospect. The team also drafted Monroe Freeling, and signed Rasheed Walker, as Ekwonu recovers from injury.
This potential influx of new talent, including rookies on the offensive front, aims to stabilize the line. Last season, the Panthers' offensive line ranked 20th in Pro Football Focus rankings, a significant drop from eighth the previous year. Finding consistency at center is crucial for quarterback Bryce Young and the overall offense.
