Picked up by Panthers
The Panthers selected Hunter in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, 49th overall.
Carolina traded up to the 49th overall pick with Minnesota in order to draft Hunter (6-foot-3, 318 pounds), an indication that the team considers upgrading from incumbent nose tackle Bobby Brown. There are no questions about Hunter's size or ability to stuff the run, but his lack of explosiveness -- having posted the worst vertical of the 2026 NFL Combine (21.5 inches) -- gesture toward limitations as a pass rusher. Hunter will turn 24 years old in advance of training camp and boasts the collegiate experience to contribute right out of the gate as a rookie.
More Carolina Panthers Fantasy Football News
Bryce Young
Contract option picked up
The Panthers have officially exercised the fifth-year option on Young's rookie contract, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.
Jonathon Brooks
Fully cleared for offseason program
Brooks (knee) said Tuesday that he's been fully cleared to participate in the Panthers' offseason program, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.
Xavier Legette
Panthers add third-round WR
Legette is facing additional competition for snaps and targets after Carolina selected Chris Brazzell in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.
Chris Brazzell II
Chosen by Carolina
The Panthers selected Brazzell in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, 83rd overall.
Monroe Freeling
Picked by Panthers
The Panthers selected Freeling in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, 19th overall.
Jalen Coker
Inks ERFA tender
Coker signed his exclusive-rights free-agent tender with the Panthers on Monday, Darin Gantt of the team's official site reports.
Ja'Tavion Sanders
Rehab going well
Panthers GM Dan Morgan said Tuesday that Sanders (fibula) has resumed running and making cuts in his rehab and could be ready for the start of OTAs, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.
Jonathon Brooks
On track for OTAs
Panthers head coach Dave Canales said Monday that he expects Brooks (knee) to be ready to participate in OTAs and minicamp, Joe Person of The Athletic reports.
John Metchie III
Reunites with Bryce Young
Metchie is signing a one-year deal with Carolina, Mike Kaye of The Charlotte Observer reports.
Kenny Pickett
Moving on to Carolina
Pickett is slated to sign a one-year contract with the Panthers, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.