3 ways the Carolina Panthers can land TE David Njoku

Carolina Panthers trade scenario No. 3 for David Njoku

Austin Hooper might be among the NFL’s best pass-catching tight ends. But his blocking leaves a lot to be desired. This must improve in a Cleveland Browns offense that will rely heavily on running back duo Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt in 2020.

Rookie Harrison Bryant isn’t going to offer much in this particular regard. But the Carolina Panthers do have a prominent blocking tight end that might be of considerable use.

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Chris Manhertz is never going to set the world alight with his skillset. However, the player represents a real force in the run game. And this could be just what new Browns’ head coach Kevin Stefanski is looking for.

This should also help Baker Mayfield in passing situations. Cleveland struggled to protect their prized asset in 2019. The team did pick up Jack Conklin in free agency to help on the edge. And they also drafted impressive offensive Jedrick Wills Jr. out of Alabama with their first-round pick.

These two arrivals could transform their fortunes from a protection perspective. But offering the Browns Manhertz with a mid-round selection thrown in might be an enticing proposition.

Stefanski knows how much a tight end who can block can make a difference. He had one during his time with the Minnesota Vikings in Kyle Rudolph. And it has the scope to be a considerable factor during critical situations next season.