Rumor: Could Panthers be making a move for TE Jordan Reed?

Could the Carolina Panthers be one of the three teams interested in acquiring free-agent Jordan Reed to boost their tight end options?

The Carolina Panthers are placing a lot of faith in Ian Thomas to fill the void left by prolific veteran Greg Olsen in 2020. The three-time Pro Bowler opted for a move to the Seattle Seahawks. And the organization didn’t bring anyone significant in to replace him during the offseason.

That might change before competitive action gets underway if the Panthers coaching staff feel like they need another capable body to give them a further boost. Most teams tend to possess two pass-catching players at the position. And this is something Carolina doesn’t have at the present time.

One notable name remaining on the free-agent market is Jordan Reed. The former Washington standout has been a productive presence during his career. But a series of concussions have severely hampered his progress in recent years.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rappaport, there should be some movement regarding Reed in the coming weeks. The insider reported that three teams are currently interested in acquiring his services next season. And this does represent a potential position of need for the Panthers.

"“One name to watch as teams gear up for training camp: FA TE Jordan Reed. The former Washington playmaker has three teams interested and plans to play in 2020. A potential low-risk, high-reward signing.”"

Should the Panthers take a chance on Jordan Reed?

There is plenty of good film to indicate that Reed would be a useful addition for the Panthers. The tight end is a physical specimen who displays the sort of athleticism that has been a nightmare to cover when he is firing on all cylinders.

Reed does come with some real concerns regarding his health. Although the player has received the all-clear from medical staff, there is just no telling what another big hit is going to do to him.

This is a red flag that teams do tend to stray away from. But Reed’s skill set is something that might yet give him one more chance of proving his worth in the NFL.

Any move would not come with any great financial compensation. So as Rappaport suggested, this is a low-risk pickup for an organization that could reap some substantial rewards.

Reed has recorded 329 receptions, 3,371 receiving yards, and 24 touchdowns during his career so far. The former Washington standout has a yards-per-reception average of 10.3 and has hauled in an impressive 73.8 percent of catchable balls thrown his way.

The Panthers might be content to go with what they have. But they will need a contingency plan in place if things do not go according to plan.