The Carolina Panthers put the finishing touches on their 2026 draft class Saturday, selecting four players on the final day of the NFL Draft while also securing one of the most intriguing undrafted free agents in the country.
General Manager Dan Morgan and his staff came away with seven total selections in this year's class, adding depth and competition across the roster. The Day 3 haul included a cornerback, an interior offensive lineman, a safety, and a linebacker -- all players who fit the team's philosophy of building through the trenches and the secondary.
Here's a breakdown of the Panthers' Day 3 picks and the headline-grabbing undrafted free agent addition that followed.
Round 4, Pick 129: CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M
After trading back twice in the fourth round, the Panthers selected Texas A&M cornerback Will Lee III with the 129th overall pick. The 6-foot-3, 190-pound defensive back brings the length and physicality that defensive coordinators covet on the outside.
Lee III is a press-man corner who thrives at the line of scrimmage, using his long arms to disrupt routes before they develop. He recorded three interceptions and 11 pass breakups during his two seasons with the Aggies, showing the ball skills to turn defense into offense.
Lee III will compete immediately for a role in the cornerback rotation, with his size potentially allowing him to play inside in the slot on certain packages. Given the Panthers' need for young talent in the secondary, this pick checks both a value and need box.
Round 5, Pick 144: C Sam Hecht, Kansas State
Interior offensive line depth was a clear priority for the Panthers this offseason, and Sam Hecht from Kansas State fits the mold of a technically sound, battle-tested center.
Hecht started 38 games for the Wildcats, primarily at center, and graded out as one of the most consistent pass protectors in the Big 12. He's not a dominant run-blocker but is assignment-sound and rarely beaten by stunts or delayed blitzes -- critical traits for any center.
With the Panthers' current starting center situation settled, Hecht is projected as a developmental backup who can compete for a reserve role in training camp. He adds versatility and insurance for the offensive line.
Round 5, Pick 151: S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State
Penn State has become a pipeline for NFL defensive backs, and the Panthers added safety Zakee Wheatley in the fifth round.
Wheatley is a rangy, athletic safety who played both deep center field and in the box for the Nittany Lions. He intercepted six passes over his final two collegiate seasons and showed solid aptitude for reading quarterbacks in zone coverage. At 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, he has the frame to match up with tight ends while also providing over-the-top help.
While the Panthers have invested heavily at safety recently, Wheatley brings a ball-hawking presence as a potential free safety. He'll need to earn a roster spot through special teams initially, but his upside is clear.
Round 7, Pick 227: LB Jackson Kuwatch, Stanford
With their final selection of the 2026 draft, the Panthers took Stanford linebacker Jackson Kuwatch.
Kuwatch is a throwback linebacker known for his instincts and physicality. He led the Cardinal in tackles for two straight seasons and demonstrated the ability to diagnose plays quickly and flow to the ball. Though not elite in speed, his football IQ and work ethic give him a chance to stick as a backup and special teams contributor.
For a seventh-round pick, that potential to contribute right away on coverage units is key, and Kuwatch's college production speaks to his mindset.
The Complete 2026 Panthers Draft Class
With the addition of the four Day 3 selections, Carolina's seven-man draft class is now complete:
- Round 1, Pick 19: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
- Round 2, Pick 49: DL Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
- Round 3, Pick 83: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee
- Round 4, Pick 129: CB Will Lee III, Texas A&M
- Round 5, Pick 144: C Sam Hecht, Kansas State
- Round 5, Pick 151: S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State
- Round 7, Pick 227: LB Jackson Kuwatch, Stanford
UDFA Headliner: QB Haynes King
As soon as the draft concluded, the Panthers moved quickly to secure one of the top undrafted free agents on the market: Georgia Tech quarterback and reigning ACC Offensive Player of the Year Haynes King.
According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, King's signing with the Panthers includes $250,000 guaranteed -- a strong indication that the organization views him as more than just a camp arm.
King's college journey was unconventional. After transferring from Texas A&M to Georgia Tech, he blossomed into one of the country's most dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks. In 2025, he threw for 3,109 yards and 27 touchdowns while rushing for over 600 yards, showcasing versatility that challenges defenses.
The Panthers now have an intriguing quarterback room. King joins starter Bryce Young and developmental QB Kenny Pickett, but the guaranteed money suggests the front office sees real potential. King extends plays with his legs, can keep drives alive, and has shown progress with accuracy and decision-making.
Though it was a surprise King went undrafted despite his ACC Offensive Player of the Year honors, the Panthers are betting on his production translating to the pro level and look forward to developing him.
Other UDFA Signings
The Panthers also signed several other undrafted free agents to fill out the rookie camp roster:
- WR Malick Meiga, Coastal Carolina
- WR Kobe Prentice, Baylor
- DT Austin Hall, Duke
- DB Jaylon Guilbreau, Texas
- CB Cam Miller, Rutgers
What It All Means
The Panthers' 2026 draft class emphasizes size, versatility, and proven production from Power Five programs. GM Dan Morgan prioritized the offensive and defensive lines early, following up with skill players and secondary additions later.
Securing Haynes King as a signed UDFA highlights a savvy move, potentially yielding a long-term asset at quarterback or providing strong competition in camp.
Ultimately, the 2026 draft and UDFA signings reflect Carolina's philosophy: building through the trenches and adding tools for a balanced roster. Training camp will reveal the real impact, but on paper, these additions represent a solid step toward sustained competitiveness.
The 2026 season promises challenges, but the Panthers' foundation continues to take shape with this well-rounded class of youthful talent. Head Coach Dave Canales and offensive coordinator Brad Idzik will have promising options to develop, complemented by defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero's growing units.
Fans should watch closely as these rookies fight for roster spots and carve roles in Carolina's evolving team.