Panthers Shake Up Special Teams with Veteran Kicker Signing

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers announced Tuesday that they have signed veteran kicker Matthew Wright to a reserve/future contract, a move that highlights the team’s ongoing search for stability in their special teams unit ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

With all three specialists from the previous season set to become free agents, the Panthers face uncertainty in their kicking, punting, and long snapping positions. J.J. Jansen, the team’s long snapper, is expected to re-sign for his 17th season, while kicker Eddy Pineiro could hit free agency after a successful season.

The 39-year-old Jansen has been crucial to the Panthers since joining the team in 2009, recently surpassing John Kasay on the franchise’s all-time service list. Jansen remarked, “I’d like to play into my 40s,” and with another year under his belt, he is closer to achieving that goal.

Pineiro, who joined the Panthers in 2022, had a strong 2024 season, successfully converting 22 of 26 field goals and 33 of 35 extra points. Though he ranks among the league’s top kickers in accuracy, doubts about his leg strength could lead the Panthers to allow him to explore free agency.

The Panthers have also turned to Wright, who had a stint with the team during training camp in 2023 and briefly filled in for Pineiro late last season. Wright, at 28, represents the team’s ongoing evaluation of their kicking options.

“Bringing in Matthew doesn’t automatically mean Pineiro is out, but it does signal that we are looking at all possible avenues for improvement,” said a source familiar with the team’s decision-making process. “The goal is to ensure we have the best possible options when the season starts.”

In the draft, the Panthers could consider younger talent. Kicker Tyler Loop of Arizona, who broke a school record with a 62-yard field goal, is one option among several promising kickers available. However, given the team’s other needs, a significant investment in a kicker may not be feasible.

At punter, Johnny Hekker has not missed a game since entering the league in 2012 but has seen a dip in performance. His average yardage fell in the last two seasons, prompting the Panthers to reassess his long-term role. Hekker’s 41.9-yard net average in 2024 still ranked in the league’s top half, which should keep him in consideration for the 2025 season.

The decision on Hekker remains uncertain, with several notable free-agent punters available, including Tress Way and Bryan Anger. As with the kicker position, the Panthers’ historical hesitance to draft specialists may mirroring their cautious approach regarding Hekker.

In conclusion, the Panthers are actively addressing their special teams with the recent addition of Matthew Wright and considerations for both their kicker and punter positions. The upcoming months will be critical as the team looks to solidify its roster ahead of the 2025 NFL season.