Every NFL draft produces its share of overlooked gems, and for the Carolina Panthers, that hidden treasure might just be a dual-threat quarterback who went undrafted but boasts a highlight reel that demands attention.
Haynes King, the 6-foot-3, 216-pound signal-caller from Georgia Tech, has joined the Panthers as an undrafted free agent—and he's already being tabbed as the team's most intriguing rookie to watch this season.
King enters a quarterback room that's both crowded and competitive. He'll line up alongside 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young, 2021 first-rounder Kenny Pickett, and 2019 third-rounder Will Grier. But don't let the depth chart fool you—King brings something special to the table.
What makes him stand out? Start with his athleticism. At the NFL Combine, King blazed a 4.46-second 40-yard dash, posted a 4.17-second short shuttle, and a 6.89-second three-cone drill. Those numbers are reminiscent of Taysom Hill, the versatile New Orleans Saints weapon who entered the league at a similar age and size.
King's college journey is a testament to perseverance. After three seasons as a backup at Texas A&M, he transferred to Georgia Tech and became a star. Over 36 starts from 2023 to 2025, he piled up 9,486 passing yards, 65 touchdowns, and a 142.7 QB rating. But it's his legs that truly set him apart—he rushed for nearly 2,500 yards and an eye-popping 37 touchdowns, making him a legitimate dual-threat nightmare for defenses.
His 2025 ACC Player of the Year award proves he can produce at the highest collegiate level. However, the 34 interceptions over his career explain why he went undrafted. Decision-making remains a work in progress.
For Panthers head coach Dave Canales, who's focused on developing young quarterbacks, King's raw athletic ability offers a fascinating project. If King can stay sharp through the preseason and avoid costly mistakes, he could eventually challenge for the No. 2 spot behind Young.
In a league where mobile quarterbacks are changing the game, King's combination of arm talent and rushing ability makes him the undrafted free agent worth keeping an eye on in Carolina.