4 prospects the Panthers might regret not drafting in 2021

Pat Freiermuth – TE

Getting some extra help at the tight end position was something the Carolina Panthers really needed from this draft. They picked up Tommy Tremble in the third round – which was considered a reach by some. But there is a lot to like about his potential to make an instant difference thanks in no small part to his blocking ability.

Whether the Notre Dame product can become more influential in the passing game remains to be seen. However, if the Panthers were looking for the total package on Day 2 then they might have given Pat Freiermuth more consideration.

It’s hard to replace someone like Greg Olsen, but Freiermuth is as close to it as a prospect as you are likely to find. His assured hands in the passing game make him a force to be reckoned with across the middle or in the red zone, with his ability as an edge blocker also set to smooth his transition to the next level.

Carolina opted to trade down in the second round from No. 39 after a deal with the Chicago Bears that allowed them to select offensive tackle Teven Jenkins. They eventually saw wide receiver Terrace Marshall Jr. fall into their laps, which was an opportunity the team simply couldn’t refuse at this stage of the draft.

With that being said, the Panthers already have an abundance of talent to call upon in the passing game and Freiermuth represented a more sensible option. By no means is Marshall a bad pick, but positional need should have been considered a bit earlier.