What happened: The seventh-round linebacker said he stayed close to his phone on cutdown day after entering the draft as a fringe prospect. He described the jump from college as faster and credited veteran guidance with sharpening his hand use against blockers.
Why it matters: His roster place gives Carolina a developmental linebacker and special-teams option for the 2026 season. The selection capped a seven-player draft class.
By the numbers: Kuwatch totaled 14 tackles—six solo and eight assisted—across four 2026 preseason games.
What to watch: His role on defense and special teams in the Sept. 13 opener will show where he fits in the rotation.