Carolina Panthers: 3 trade targets from the Chicago Bears
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers trade target: Demetrius Harris (TE)
The Carolina Panthers look relatively short of tight end options behind Ian Thomas, of which much is expected in 2020. The player has shown enormous promise during his time on the field in Greg Olsen’s absence in 2018. But he wasn’t much of a contributor last season and it remains to be seen just what sort of leap he can take forward in a more prominent starting role.
Carolina’s decision-makers might opt to explore the trade market for another player at the position to come in and contribute. Demetrius Harris has an enticing skillset and might be worth considering if the price is right.
Harris started his career with the Kansas City Chiefs and gave a good account of himself when called upon. He spent one season with the Cleveland Browns in 2019 and managed to secure 15 receptions from 27 targets on his way to 149 yards and three touchdowns.
The Chicago Bears signed Harris to a one-year, $1.65 million deal with $500,000 guaranteed this offseason. But the organization also allocated their second-round selection on former Notre Dame standout Cole Kmet in the 2020 NFL Draft.
This has the potential to put Harris down the pecking order. And the Panthers might be able to take advantage of this if they identify him as a player of interest.
Harris is 6-foot-7 and is an imposing target in the red zone. He doesn’t use his physical gifts as well as he should. But he could be a nice foil for Thomas if things don’t pan out as expected.