Former Jaguars Offensive Lineman Signs with Panthers

Luke Fortner inks one-year deal with Carolina after trade from Jacksonville

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Former Jacksonville Jaguars center Luke Fortner has signed a one-year contract with the Carolina Panthers in free agency. Fortner was traded to the New Orleans Saints last summer and started 10 games for them in 2025 before becoming a free agent.

Why it matters

The move provides Fortner, a 2022 third-round pick, with a fresh start after being traded away by the Jaguars. It also gives the Panthers added depth and experience on their offensive line as they look to improve on a disappointing 2025 season.

The details

Fortner was traded from the Jaguars to the Saints last offseason in exchange for defensive tackle Khalen Saunders. In 10 starts for the Saints in 2025, Fortner allowed just 11 pressures over 442 pass-blocking snaps. With the Jaguars drafting Robert Hainsey last year and Jonah Monheim progressing, they felt comfortable moving on from Fortner.

  • Fortner was traded to the Saints during 2025 training camp.
  • Fortner started 10 games for the Saints in the 2025 season.

The players

Luke Fortner

A former third-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2022 who has now signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Panthers in free agency.

Khalen Saunders

A defensive tackle who the Jaguars received in a trade from the Saints in exchange for Fortner.

Robert Hainsey

An offensive lineman drafted by the Jaguars last offseason, allowing them to feel comfortable moving on from Fortner.

Jonah Monheim

A rookie offensive lineman who progressed throughout training camp with the Jaguars, also contributing to their decision to trade Fortner.

Tom Pelissero

An NFL Network reporter who broke the news of Fortner signing with the Panthers.

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What they’re saying

“Former Jacksonville Jaguars center Luke Fortner has found a new home for the 2026 season.”

— Tom Pelissero, NFL Network reporter (NFL Network)

What’s next

Fortner will look to earn a starting role on the Panthers' offensive line in training camp and the preseason as he aims to revive his career after being traded by the Jaguars.

The takeaway

This move provides Fortner with a fresh start after being traded away by the Jaguars, while also giving the Panthers added depth and experience on their offensive line as they try to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.