The Carolina Panthers have officially closed the book on their 2026 draft class, inking their final unsigned rookie to a contract just in time for the offseason grind. On Friday, the team announced they've signed second-round pick Lee Hunter to a four-year deal, locking up the promising defensive tackle for the foreseeable future.

Hunter, selected 49th overall after the Panthers traded up to snag him, was the last of Carolina's seven draft picks to put pen to paper. The Texas Tech product made a strong impression in his final season with the Red Raiders, racking up 41 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. His ability to disrupt the backfield should add a fresh spark to a defensive line that's already loaded with talent.

Hunter joins a deep rotation that includes veterans like Derrick Brown and Bobby Brown, along with Tershawn Wharton, LaBryan Ray, Jared Harrison-Hunte, Cam Jackson, Aaron Hall, and Parker Petersen. With this signing, the Panthers have all their rookie ducks in a row, setting the stage for a competitive training camp. For fans eyeing the latest Panthers gear to rep their new draft class, this is a solid sign that the front office is all in on building from the trenches up.