Carolina has inked quarterback Haynes King, a prospect who went unselected in the recent NFL Draft, securing him as an undrafted free agent. The deal reportedly includes $250,000 in guaranteed money, a detail underscoring the team's perceived value in the player's potential. King, hailing from Longview, Texas, joins the Panthers after a collegiate career that saw him transfer from Texas A&M to Georgia Tech. His signing was anticipated, with Panthers president of football operations and general manager Dan Morgan having indicated the team's intention to add a quarterback post-draft.
A Dual-Threat Profile with Questions of Durability
King’s collegiate statistics present a profile of a dual-threat signal-caller. In his final season at Georgia Tech, he registered 3,290 total yards – a school record – with 2,967 yards passing and 953 yards rushing, complemented by a combined 37 touchdowns. This performance earned him honors as the ACC Player of the Year and ACC Offensive Player of the Year. His career numbers include significant rushing output, with 2,427 yards and 37 touchdowns on the ground across 471 carries.
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However, King’s physical style and the volume of hits he absorbed during his college tenure have raised concerns among some scouts regarding his NFL durability. Questions persist about his ability to withstand the rigors of professional football, particularly his tendency to avoid sliding in contact situations. This aggressive approach, while indicative of a competitive spirit, has been flagged as a potential vulnerability.
Collegiate Journey and Transition to the NFL
King began his collegiate path at Texas A&M University, spending his first three seasons there before transferring to Georgia Tech. At Georgia Tech, he demonstrated a capacity to elevate a struggling program, helping to transform it into a nationally ranked contender. His performance in his final season placed him among the top quarterbacks in Power Conference play, notably ranking second in rushing touchdowns with 15.
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The Panthers’ acquisition of King as an undrafted free agent signifies an opportunistic move by the organization. While the specifics of his contract suggest a calculated investment, the lack of a draft selection points to a level of risk associated with his projection to the professional level. His path to the NFL, bypassing the draft, places him in direct competition for a roster spot against players who were selected by the team.
