Carolina Panthers: 5 tight end draft prospects that could replace Olsen

Cole Kmet – (Notre Dame)

Cole Kmet boasts hands that defy his size and he is good at creating space for himself in tight situations. He is similar to Greg Olsen in that sense and would be a ready-made replacement for the departed player with the Carolina Panthers.

Kmet’s aggression is one of the standout features of his game and he plays every down with infectious enthusiasm that drives others around him. One thing he will have to improve on is his ability to prevent defensive ends and linebackers from getting to his quarterback without help.

This will help his overall efficiency as there is potential there for him to be a good blocker at the next level. It will be up to Matt Rhule and the offensive staff in Carolina to make sure he is not on an island if he ends up with the franchise.

Kmet also needs to get better catching off his chest and securing the ball efficiently under pressure. There is a lot to like about his potential to thrive in Rhule’s system. But expecting him to be a plug-and-play starter right away might be asking too much.

That being said, there is nothing to suggest Kmet isn’t going to have a successful NFL career in the coming years. He is projected to be a second-round selection and it remains to be seen whether this puts him on the Panthers’ radar with so many more pressing needs elsewhere.