5 emerging positives from the Panthers win vs. Falcons in Week 10

Carolina Panthers have an elite punter in Johnny Hekker

Another position that has been a problem for the Carolina Panthers in recent years is the punter spot. However, for it seems the next three years at least they don’t have to worry about that.

Johnny Hekker, who was signed in the offseason, has just been lights out so far this season. Proving beyond all doubt he still has what it takes despite being cast aside by the Los Angeles Rams.

On Thursday Night we witnessed Hekker once again prove why he is one of the best punters in the business and arguably among the greatest all-time at the position. A glance at the stats sees five punts for 216 yards with an average of 43.2 yards doesn’t really jump off the page, but he flipped the field consistently with exceptional placement.

Hekker had two punts inside the 20, including one late in the fourth quarter when he pinned the Atlanta Falcons close to the goal-line with some help from special teams ace Sam Franklin, who is really proving his worth.

Having an elite punter really makes a difference and Hekker certainly remains in this category. Couple that with a very good special teams coordinator in Chris Tabor and you have a unit that can make a serious difference.