Panthers No. 82: Can Chris Manhertz become a passing threat?

Can tight end Chris Manhertz take advantage of a rare opening and become another weapon for the Carolina Panthers in 2020?

We are now just 82 days away from the Carolina Panthers returning to the field in a competitive environment. Things are set to look far different in 2020 with the prospect of no fans in the stands. But as things stand currently, everything seems on course to start on time.

This is a rapidly changing situation and one that already has the Carolina Panthers facing the prospect of a potentially shortened preseason program. The league is considering reducing the schedule from four games to just two. And this has the scope to impact the franchise more than most.

The Panthers are working with a completely new coaching staff and a revamped roster next season. Their rebuild under Matt Rhule is in its infancy. And it will be a case of wait and see in terms of what their fortunes will be in 2020 and possibly beyond.

Continuing our countdown feature leading up to the Panthers’ week one clash against the Las Vegas Raiders, we now turn our attention to Carolina’s No. 82. Chris Manhertz might not have seen many targets from the tight end spot during his time with the organization so far. But that is a trend that might not continue in 2020.

In truth, Manhertz might not get a better opportunity to show the decision-makers what he is capable of. And it is vital he makes the most out of this window of opportunity.

Carolina lost the services of prolific veteran Greg Olsen when the tight end departed in free agency for the Seattle Seahawks. While few would begrudge the player ending his career with a more realistic chance of attaining a Super Bowl. It has left the roster devoid of any real depth behind No. 1 option Ian Thomas.

Much will depend on how Thomas performs in an increased role going forward. But Manhertz stands a good chance of making the No. 2 spot his own in 2020. This was further aided by Seth Devalve’s release due to a non-football injury. And the onus will now be on the former undrafted prospect out of Canisius to deliver.

Can Chris Manhertz become a weapon for the Carolina Panthers in 2020?

It’s hard to gauge just what sort of impact that Chris Manhertz can make in the passing game for the Carolina Panthers. The tight end normally catches the ball when it is thrown his way. But chances to demonstrate this particular area of his game have generally been in short supply.

Nobody can dispute his blocking quality on the edge. And this is something that has been of real benefit to the organization over his four-year stint in Carolina. But more will be needed this time around if Thomas does not live up to his ceiling.

Manhertz is heading into the final year of his deal and is set to make a base salary of $910,000 in 2020. This might be his final opportunity to demonstrate he can be an all-round contributor at tight end. And if this current group fails to produce the goods. It will leave the Panthers with no option other to explore different alternatives in free agency or the 2021 NFL Draft.

There is a lot to like about the way Manhertz goes about his business. He will be one of the more vocal presences within the Panthers’ locker room going forward. And this has the potential to be another strong asset to call upon with a young group who will be learning as they go.

It seems like Manhertz has been waiting for an age to secure an opening like this. But whether he can take advantage of this is another matter entirely.