Panthers fifth-rounder among Day 3 picks who could start in 2026

The Carolina Panthers did an excellent job of navigating through the 2026 NFL Draft. In addition to filling immediate roster needs at wide receiver, defensive tackle and cornerback, they also made a couple of additions to the offensive line that should benefit them in the long run—even if they don't end up starting right away.

First-rounder Monroe Freeling out of Georgia is getting most of the attention, and he should project as a long-term starter at either left tackle or right tackle. Fifth-rounder Sam Hecht out of Kansas State is also getting some love as a potential Day 3 gem, too.

According to Chad Reuter of NFL.com, Hecht could wind up competing for starting snaps at center as a rookie. Reuter writes:

Hecht's athleticism and intensity as the leader of Kansas State's line leads me to believe he could be the guy at center as a rookie. The Panthers signed Luke Fortner as a veteran presence, but he lost his starting job in Jacksonville two years ago and was traded to New Orleans, where he stepped into the lineup after starter Erik McCoy was injured. Hecht should be given every chance to win the job in training camp.

This is right on the money. Even Fortner has the edge in experience, by no means should he just be given the starting center spot by default. If Hecht winds up performing better over the coming months, then he should be starting Week 1.

There's also a case to start Hecht right away, even if Fortner looks a little more polished. Fortner is only under contract on a one-year deal, and Hecht has to be considered the favorite to be their long-term starter at this spot.

It may take time for Hecht to get adjusted to the competition at the next level. But the sooner the Panthers can get that process underway, the better.