Hangartner getting it done at guard and as a 301-pound kick returner

CHARLOTTE (AP) -- The Carolina Panthers' Geoff Hangartner is proving that versatility is important.

The six-foot-five, 301 pound Hangartner started at center last year. He's starting at right guard now.

But he's especially proud of his role as a kick returner.

Hangartner has returned three kicks this year and he says he's given the team good field position. He pointed out that his return average increased from 13 yards to 14 yards after Sunday's win over the Seattle Seahawks.

He had a 16-yard return on a botched kickoff against the Seahawks. The starting field position on the Carolina 39 led to John Kasay's go-ahead field goal in the 13-10 win.

Center Justin Hartwig joked that teams should kick away from Hangartner, a blocker on the return team.

(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)