The Carolina Panthers have selected Texas Tech defensive tackle Lee Hunter with the No. 49 overall pick in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, according to draft reports. The Panthers acquired the selection by trading up with the Minnesota Vikings.
To move into the No. 49 spot, Carolina sent picks No. 51 and No. 159 to Minnesota in exchange for No. 49 and No. 196. Hunter, a 6-foot-3, 318-pound interior lineman, is the first player in Texas Tech history to be drafted by the Panthers franchise.
During the 2025 season, Hunter recorded 41 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks across 14 starts for the Red Raiders. His performance earned him First Team All-Big 12 honors and Second Team All-America recognition from the FWAA. He anchored a Texas Tech defense that ranked among the top five nationally in rushing yards allowed per game (68.1).
A native of Mobile, Alabama, Hunter previously played at Auburn and UCF before transferring to Texas Tech for his final collegiate season. In 2023 at UCF, he led all defensive tackles in the nation with 69 total tackles. He joins first-round offensive tackle Monroe Freeling as part of the Panthers' 2026 draft class.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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