Panthers Draft: 3 NFC South rival picks that cause concern
By Dean Jones
Panthers Draft: Adam Trautman – TE
There wasn’t much to choose from regarding the dangers awaiting the Carolina Panthers from the New Orleans Saints picks. They gave up the majority of their selections to trade up and grab their tight end of choice who they fell can make a solid difference in 2020 and beyond.
Adam Trautman was regarded by many experts as the best tight end in the draft. He provides a real threat across the middle and seems to come alive in the red zone.
The former Dayton standout appears to have all the tools necessary to fit in seamlessly to Sean Payton’s offense. He also provides veteran quarterback Drew Brees with another reliable presence in the passing game during what is expected to be his final year before retirement.
The Panthers are moving to a 4-3 defensive base next season, which might cause complications during their period of transition. This could be especially evident at the second level with a three-linebacker set and there should be plenty of space for Trautman to exploit with the presence of Michael Thomas and free-agent signing Emmanuel Sanders.
New Orleans still has Jared Cook at the tight end position in 2020. This will allow Trautman to develop at his own pace and come in during the sort of specially designed plays Payton loves to utilize whenever possible.
He has been earmarked as the team’s long-term tight end and the Saints gave up a tremendous amount to secure his services. If Trautman reaches his ceiling, it could be bad news for the Panthers.