What exciting traits does interior offensive lineman Robert Hunt bring to the Carolina Panthers after his bombshell deal to kick off free agency?
Reports suggested that the Carolina Panthers were going to be aggressive in their quest to find offensive line help during free agency. It didn't take long for this speculation to become something more substantial thanks to an eye-watering deal for Robert Hunt.
The former second-round selection has agreed to a five-year, $100 million deal with $63 million guaranteed. Hunt also receives a $26.5 million signing bonus once the ink dries on his contract. It's a steep price, but the Panthers needed to solidify the protection in front of quarterback Bryce Young urgently.
Carolina's big investment in Young cannot fall flat. They need to maximize his rookie contract and ensure he becomes the franchise-caliber presence most envisaged when the Panthers took him No. 1 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. More is needed - especially at the skill positions - but this is a step in the right direction.
With this in mind, Hunt will bring three exciting traits to the Panthers in 2024 and beyond.
Robert Hunt brings physicality
The Carolina Panthers got exposed for their lack of depth across the offensive line in 2023. They also looked a little threadbare in terms of physicality within a group that was largely unsuited to the concepts implemented by previous head coach Frank Reich and offensive coordinator Thomas Brown.
Robert Hunt is here to change all that. The guard brings physicality to every snap. His game has a ruthless aggression that's hard not to love. This is going to make a significant difference as the Panthers look to keep a clean pocket for quarterback Bryce Young and prevent rushers from creating havoc from the interior.
Hunt has the sort of desire and fierce that will make him an instant fan favorite among the fanbase. His arrival has the scope to completely change the entire offensive line's mindset as a tone-setting enforcer capable of impacting proceedings in all phases.
Robert Hunt brings athleticism
Another complication behind the Carolina Panthers offensive line demise in 2023 centered on athleticism. While most weren't happy operating within a zone-blocking scheme, they looked incredibly rigid. The unit was unable to cope with explosive speed rushers and couldn't pick up the simplest stunts or shifts effectively. It came as no surprise to see quarterback Bryce Young running for his life as a result.
This is something Robert Hunt can improve. Considering his size - 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds - he is incredibly athletic. He is quick into his stance and has the mobility to get out on the move and impact matters at the second level if the situation dictates. Placing him on the right-hand side of Carolina's protection alongside ultra-consistent edge presence Taylor Moton could be among the league's best with a smooth transition.
Some slight injury worries cannot be ignored. Hunt missed a good chunk of time last season but showed no signs of lingering effects once he returned to the lineup. More importantly, he hadn't lost any quick twitch speed and the ability to change direction rapidly.
The Panthers paid a hefty price to bring Hunt into the fold. From an athletic profile perspective, he's easily the best guard they've had since Trai Turner was at the peak of his powers. He's a player that can make everyone around him better, including Young.
Robert Hunt brings elite pass protection
The Carolina Panthers wasted no time in making their intentions clear. They have to give quarterback Bryce Young more time in the pocket. Otherwise, there is no chance of the team's substantial investment in the Heisman Trophy winner reaping the necessary rewards.
Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis will be the new starting guard tandem. Austin Corbett is reportedly moving to the center position, which is a big gamble considering his lack of experience at the position and the fact he's coming off two major knee injuries. But at least there is a plan.
Another exciting trait Hunt brings to the Panthers is elite pass protection. The player is technically sound and uses leverage to his advantage consistently. There's a nice blend of power and fluidity that makes him a difficult proposition to shift off the block. Once he gets the upper hand in pass-blocking sets, there is nothing anyone can do.
Want more proof? Take a look at Hunt's statistics over the last four seasons:
- 3,477 snaps
- 29 penalties conceded
- 9 sacks allowed
Aside from the discipline issues - which seemed to be successfully resolved last season - this production and high consistency level are highly encouraging. Hunt's elite pass protection from the interior made him one of the most coveted guards on the free-agent market. Convincing him this was a project worth being part of - coupled with the astronomical financial commitment - represents a massive coup for the Panthers.
And make no mistake, nobody will be happier than Bryce Young.