Carolina Panthers Finalizing $100 Million Deal with Robert Hunt: What It Means for the Team
The Carolina Panthers are set to strengthen their offensive line with the addition of Robert Hunt, as sources have confirmed a five-year, $100 million deal that includes $63 million guaranteed. Previously a guard for the Miami Dolphins, Hunt brings a wealth of experience and talent to the Panthers.
Throughout his four seasons with the Dolphins, Hunt showcased his versatility by playing at multiple positions on the offensive line, except for left guard. His primary roles were at right tackle and right guard, and he started an impressive 55 out of 67 potential games during this time.
One notable highlight of Hunt’s career is his impressive pass blocking success rate of 90.9%. Over 3,316 snaps, he has only allowed 12 sacks. Such proficiency in protecting the quarterback makes him a valuable asset for any team.
At the age of 28, Hunt still has plenty of time to further develop his skills and contribute to the Panthers’ success. As part of the Dolphins’ productive 2020 draft class, Hunt was a second-round pick alongside fellow lineman Austin Jackson. Both players have already made a significant impact in the NFL, with Jackson securing a three-year, $36 million extension in December.
The Panthers’ decision to pursue Hunt stems from their commitment to strengthening their offensive line and providing better protection for their talented quarterback, Bryce Young. The rookie quarterback, selected as the top pick in the 2023 draft, faced constant pressure and was sacked a staggering 62 times in his first season. This places him second only to Sam Howell of the Washington Commanders, who was sacked 65 times.
Throughout the previous season, the Panthers faced numerous challenges on their offensive line due to injuries and below-par performances. They had to field seven different left guards and eight different right guards, emphasizing the urgent need for stability and consistency. Robert Hunt’s signing serves as a promising solution to address these concerning issues.
Looking ahead, the Panthers are also contemplating upgrading at the center position. Bradley Bozeman, the current starter, is expected to be released before receiving a $1.5 million roster bonus on March 16. The decision to part ways with Bozeman is primarily driven by his subpar performance, as he allowed the most sacks among any qualified center last season.
In summary, the addition of Robert Hunt to the Carolina Panthers’ offensive line signals a proactive step towards success. With his versatility, experience, and exceptional pass blocking skills, he brings a much-needed sense of stability to a team that struggled with injuries and inconsistency in the previous season. This strategic move aligns with the team’s commitment to providing a solid foundation for their quarterback, Bryce Young, and ultimately improving their overall performance during the upcoming season.