Panthers Potentially Find Starting Center in Former Top-Rated Recruit

One of the biggest question marks for the Panthers moving forward is who the starting center will be. Austin Corbett projects as the current starter after Bradley Bozeman was cut in the offseason, though Corbett's primary experience comes at guard.

Carolina may have found a solution, signing standout Oklahoma center Andrew Raym as an undrafted free agent. Raym was the top-rated player in Oklahoma out of high school and helped anchor the Sooners' offensive line for the last three seasons.

He earned three straight All-Big 12 honors, allowing just six total sacks over the three seasons. Could Raym be the starting center as soon as this year?

Panthers Sign Star Oklahoma C Andrew Raym as Undrafted Free Agent

Obviously, Raym still needs to make the roster. Given his pedigree, experience and position though, he's got an inside track to serve as a depth piece at the least.

Long-term, the 6'4", 326 LB lineman could be a starting-caliber center. As 2023 first-overall pick QB Bryce Young develops, it's critical to surround him with talented offensive linemen. It's certainly concerning not to have a true starting center on the roster, so Raym should get every opportunity to prove himself.

He's not a flawless prospect, having gone undrafted for a reason, but Raym has over 1,000 snaps of collegiate experience with high-end physical traits. Those kinds of players are worth taking a swing on, particularly when you're rebuilding your roster.

There are improvements to be made with technique and fundamentals, but that's what coaching is for. If Dave Canales and his staff can develop Raym into a quality starter, it'll represent a massive win for the 2024 rookie class.

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