The Carolina Panthers are entering 2026 looking to prove their 2025 run to the playoffs wasn't a fluke. Running back Trevor Etienne has spotted someone who can take the Panthers closer to their goals.
Carolina selected defensive tackle Lee Hunter in the second-round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Early on in OTAs, the rookie has impressed Etienne, who is expecting a strong career for the defensive tackle, via Mike Kaye of the Charlotte Observer.
“I like Lee Hunter. I like the way he approaches the game. I like his mindset. Got some time to sit down and like chop it up with him, and I just like what he stands for,” Etienne said. “I like the way he thinks. I like the way he’s wired. I like the way his motor works.”
“Guys like that you don’t really see around a lot,” he continued. “And I’m just curious to see where his career goes, and what he’s finna do.”
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Hunter spent three years at UCF before transferring to Texas Tech as a senior. During his lone season with the Red Raiders, the defensive tackle put up 41 tackles, 10.5 for a loss and 2.5 sacks. He was named First-Team All-American and Big-12.
The Panthers finished their 2025 season ranked 20th in rushing defense, allowing 123.3 yards per game. Hunter will now be expected to fill up holes in the middle of the line and overall be a building block for Carolina's defense.
As Etienne tries to carve out a bigger role in the offense, he'll be consistently facing Hunter in practice. But with the overall success of the Panthers in mind, the running back thinks that could only be a good thing.
The Carolina Panthers are entering 2026 looking to prove their 2025 run to the playoffs wasn't a fluke. Running back Trevor Etienne has spotted someone who can take the Panthers closer to their goals. Carolina selected defensive tackle Lee Hunter in the second-round of the 2026 NFL Draft.