Panthers Sign Former Saints Center Luke Fortner
Charlotte, NC – The Carolina Panthers have bolstered their offensive line with the addition of center Luke Fortner, agreeing to terms with the free agent on a one-year deal, according to reports from the NFL Network on Tuesday. The move comes as the Panthers navigate changes at the center position following the departure of Cade Mays to the Detroit Lions.
Fortner, who spent the 2025 season with the Latest Orleans Saints, provides a veteran presence and depth to a Panthers team looking to solidify its protection for quarterback Bryce Young. The Panthers reportedly see Fortner as a backup option, currently behind Austin Corbett at center.
From Jacksonville to New Orleans and Now Carolina
Fortner’s journey to Carolina is a winding one. Originally a third-round pick by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2022 NFL Draft, he appeared in 51 games and made 34 starts during his time in Florida. The Jaguars traded Fortner to the Saints prior to the 2025 season in exchange for defensive tackle Khalen Saunders. Saunders, however, saw limited action with Jacksonville, appearing in only two games before being released.
In New Orleans, Fortner unexpectedly stepped into a starting role when Saints center Erik McCoy suffered a biceps injury in Week 7 of the 2025 season. He started the remaining 10 games, performing admirably and contributing to the development of quarterback Tyler Shough. According to Pro Football Focus, Fortner allowed just 11 pressures across 442 pass-blocking snaps, achieving a 98.3 pass-blocking efficiency – the best mark of his career. Although his run-blocking grade was lower at 65.3, the Saints offensive line as a whole faced challenges in that area.
What Fortner Brings to Carolina
The Panthers’ interest in Fortner signals a desire for stability and competition at the center position. With Mays now in Detroit, Fortner offers a proven commodity who can step in if needed. His experience in both a starting and backup role makes him a valuable asset for head coach Dave Canales and offensive coordinator Dan Morgan.
The addition of Fortner also addresses a potential demand for depth, given McCoy’s injury history in New Orleans. McCoy has missed 20 of his last 34 games due to various ailments, highlighting the importance of having a reliable backup center. The Saints will now likely turn to Torricelli Simpkins III as their primary backup option.
Impact on the Panthers’ Offensive Line
The Panthers offensive line underwent significant changes this offseason. The team re-signed several key players, including Isaiah Simmons, LaBryan Ray, and Robert Rochell, but the center position remained a point of focus. Fortner’s arrival provides a measure of security and allows the Panthers to continue evaluating their long-term options at the position.
His ability to quickly adapt to a new offense and build rapport with his teammates will be crucial. The Panthers’ coaching staff will likely emphasize his pass-blocking skills, given his success in that area with the Saints. Fortner’s experience working with a young quarterback in Shough could also prove beneficial as Young continues to develop.
Looking Ahead
The Panthers will start their offseason training program on April 15th. Fortner is expected to participate and compete for a role on the roster. The team will also be closely monitoring the progress of other offensive linemen as they prepare for the 2026 season.
The Panthers’ next key date is the NFL Draft, scheduled for April 25-27 in Detroit. While Fortner addresses an immediate need, the Panthers may still consider adding another center through the draft to further bolster their depth and build for the future.
Fans can follow updates on Fortner and the Panthers throughout the offseason on the team’s official website, www.panthers.com, and on their social media channels.
