Nick Hampton

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	Tkl	Sacks	INT
Career		36	17	—	—
2025		12	10	0.0	0
2024		14	3	0.0	0
2023		10

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Panthers secured solid depth value with Nick Hampton's four-year, $4.4M deal, landing a reliable linebacker at just $1.1M annually — a modest investment that earns a C+ CVI grade. While Hampton profiles as a depth piece rather than a difference-maker, his contract reflects appropriate market positioning for a player who can contribute on special teams and provide rotational support without breaking the bank. At this salary tier, Carolina isn't expecting elite production, but they're getting a steady veteran presence who can step in when needed without creating significant financial exposure. The minimal $0.4M guaranteed money keeps the Panthers' downside risk extremely low, essentially making this a prove-it deal where Hampton must earn his roster spot each season. This represents shrewd roster building — not every signing needs to be a splash, and finding competent depth players at reasonable rates is exactly how teams maintain flexibility while building out their 53-man roster.

Performance Analysis

Nick Hampton earns an F grade as a young linebacker who has been unable to establish himself with the Panthers. Carolina's defensive rebuild has created some opportunities, but Hampton hasn't capitalized on them. His limited appearances have been primarily on special teams, where the effort is evident but the impact is limited. The Panthers need young defenders to develop as part of their long-term plan, and Hampton is behind the expected timeline. He's a fringe roster player fighting to stay in the league.

Fan Sentiment

A low-risk camp body signing with minimal immediate impact expected. Five headlines covered the move, mostly framing it as a depth roster addition. Hampton's App State background and Rams experience signal a practice squad or special-teams candidate. Fans are cautiously curious, noting the Rams expert angle as a minor credibility boost. Hampton likely fights for a roster spot on special teams rather than contributing as a starter.