Panthers: Jarius Wright signs two-year deal with team
“Mr. Third Down” is now a member of the Carolina Panthers…
A former Minnesota Vikings standout is headed to the Carolina Panthers. Former Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jarius Wright signed a two-year deal on Monday, adding depth to the Panther receiving core.
Wright was drafted in the fourth round (No. 118 overall) by the Vikings in 2012. He played college football at the University of Arkansas.
Former #Vikings WR Jarius Wright is signing with the #Panthers, source said, on a 2-year deal. He gets a $2M signing bonus and the first year is worth up to $3.5M with incentives. ... Didn’t take long to find a home.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 19, 2018
Wright played in 16 games in 2017 for the Vikings. He recorded 18 catches for 198 yards and two touchdowns.
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Wright was given the nickname “Mr. Third Down” during his time with the Vikings, always seeming to be able to make a big play when the team needed it most. In December 2015 for instance, Wright recorded 13 catches. Nine resulted in first downs and four were third-down conversions.
The Carolina Panthers have done a nice job adding more offensive weapons for Cam Newton. Earlier in the month, they acquired Torrey Smith and now, they have acquired Wright. Is Wright going to be a No. 1 option? No, probably not. However, he should be able to see time as more of a situational player. Given his reputation for being successful on third downs, I could see him being brought in in order to try and convert a third down on a crucial possession.
The Carolina Panthers are building enough depth at the wide receiver position to where they can afford to have specialty players. That is the type of role Wright will be able to fill and he should do it well. It will be interesting to see exactly how the Panthers use him.
Next: Vaccaro an intriguing option
After a quiet couple of days to begin the offseason, the Carolina Panthers have begun making moves at a rapid rate. I have a feeling there are more moves in store. The team has a plan, and now we are beginning to see the results of their blueprint coming to fruition.