The Panthers are moving up two spots in Round 2, snaring No. 39 from the Vikings. Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter is Charlotte-bound as a result. Minnesota will collect Nos. 51 and 159 from Carolina in exchange for Nos. 49 and 196, NFL.com’s Mike Garafolo tweets.
Hunter put himself on draft boards early in his collegiate career at UCF. After making an immediate impact at a position that often requires some development as a true freshman, Hunter took on a starting role as a sophomore for the Knights. He exploded onto the scene in Orlando, posting career highs in total tackles (69), sacks (3.0), and tackles for loss (11.0). After producing another sack and 9.5 tackles for loss in his junior year, Hunter opted to transfer to Lubbock, to take on a starting role on what would become one of the nation’s best defensive lines.
Hunter continued to produce for the Red Raiders, notching 2.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss. Though he found success in his pass rushing opportunities at Tech, that likely won’t be where Hunter excels at the NFL level. He profiles as an elite run stopper. The 320-pound lineman carries his weight with a surprising ease and fluidity. Strong arms make his immovable frame that much more imposing against offensive lines that often attempt double teams to no avail. He’ll need some technique work at the next level but immediately becomes a go-to in must stop running downs for the Panthers defense.
Carolina has struggled to find consistent talent with which to surround star defensive tackle Derrick Brown, but he’s been a lone star on the defensive line for years. Hunter may not be an every down contributor, but he has a strong chance to be a huge asset for the Panthers early and often.
Ely Allen contributed to this post.