The Carolina Panthers are adding a major dose of franchise history to the 2026 NFL Draft. Legendary quarterback Jake Delhomme, the only signal-caller in the team's Hall of Honor, will take the stage in Pittsburgh next week to announce the Panthers' second-round selection.
It's a fitting honor for a player who embodies the Panthers' spirit. Delhomme, who famously entered the league as an undrafted free agent in 1997, carved out an incredible career defined by resilience and clutch performances. Over seven seasons in Carolina, he threw for 19,258 yards and 120 touchdowns, stats that still rank second in franchise history.
His legacy, however, is defined by more than numbers. Delhomme was the field general who led the Panthers to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance following the 2003 season, creating iconic moments that cemented his place in the hearts of fans. Now, he'll help usher in the next generation of Panthers talent.
The second round of the draft kicks off on Friday, April 24th, with Carolina currently holding the 51st overall pick. Having a franchise icon like Delhomme make the announcement adds a special layer of significance to the moment, connecting the team's proud past directly to its future.
