Panthers Draft Sam Hecht, Strengthen Center Position

0:00It's April 25th. You're listening to NFL News Today, AI-powered NFL coverage. The Carolina Panthers just snag Kansas State Center Sam Hecht with the 144th pick in the draft, giving them a second center on. The roster alongside Luke Fortner. They traded back twice in the fourth round to land that spot, turning a solid strategy into a big win for their line. Fans and analysts are buzzing, calling it a smart grab since Hecht ranks as the second best center available and fills a huge gap with no real backups. Before this, he sets a learn behind Fortner for a year, positioning him as the future replacement for Kate Mays of the middle. With Fortner not locked in past this season, this move locks down the position long term and keeps the Panthers building strong.