Panthers Sign TE Feleipe Franks, OLB Nick Hampton

Both players are core special teams contributors for the team.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 2:05am

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The Carolina Panthers have agreed to terms with tight end Feleipe Franks and outside linebacker Nick Hampton, the team announced on Friday. Franks, a former college quarterback, will sign a one-year deal to return to the Panthers for a second stint, while Hampton was a fifth-round pick by the Rams in 2023 out of Appalachian State.

Why it matters

The signings of Franks and Hampton bolster the Panthers' special teams units, which are crucial for a team looking to improve on a disappointing 2025 season. Both players have primarily contributed on special teams throughout their NFL careers so far.

The details

Franks, 28, has played 16 games with the Panthers in 2024, but has made his mark on special teams, playing 731 snaps over his four-year career compared to just 128 snaps on offense. Hampton, meanwhile, has played 36 games for the Rams over the past three seasons, recording 17 tackles and two pass deflections while seeing the majority of his playing time on special teams.

  • The Panthers announced the signings on Friday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Feleipe Franks

A 28-year-old tight end who previously played 16 games for the Panthers in 2024 and has made his living on special teams throughout his NFL career.

Nick Hampton

A fifth-round pick by the Rams in 2023 out of Appalachian State, the outside linebacker has played 36 games over the past three seasons, primarily contributing on special teams.

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The takeaway

The additions of Franks and Hampton underscore the Panthers' focus on improving their special teams units as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. Both players have proven to be valuable contributors in the third phase of the game, which could be a key factor in the team's success going forward.