The Panthers have elected to let Johnny Hekker walk in favor of a younger replacement.
The Carolina Panthers have reportedly come to terms with punter Sam Martin on a one year deal worth about $3 million.
Punter news: Former #Bills P Sam Martin is signing with the #Panthers on a 1-year deal worth up to $3M, per The Insiders.
Deal negotiated by Sean Kiernan of @AthletesFirst. pic.twitter.com/m3GZybIUn4
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2025
We had seen Johnny Hekker’s consistency and power diminish in recent years as he gets up their in age, so the Panthers rightfully looked to go younger at the position. Martin is just while Hekker is 35 years and 31 days old while Martin is a spry 35 years and 12 days old.
Martin, being in the prime of his career, averaged an entire yard longer per punt than the aging Hekker did last season. Martin had a lower net, but he had one full punt more downed inside the 20 yard line than Hekker did. Martin also finished in the top 10 in most touchbacks punted.
The move checks off arguably one of the most pressing needs the Panthers had on their roster, and the front office was clearly very aggressive in pursuing a significant upgrade at the position.