Panthers depth chart: Pre-camp 53-man roster projection for 2021
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers depth chart: Tight Ends
- Dan Arnold, Tommy Tremble, Ian Thomas.
Not having the reliable presence of Greg Olsen at the tight end spot is something that was missed by the Carolina Panthers in 2020. Letting him walk in free agency was an error in hindsight and those in power brought in some strong recruits in a bid to upgrade the position next time around.
Dan Arnold put up some career numbers with the Arizona Cardinals last season and should become a useful asset to call upon both across the middle and in the red zone. Two areas where the Panthers struggled to find consistency in the immediate aftermath of Olsen’s departure.
Carolina also got their hands on Tommy Tremble in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The Notre Dame product is a ferocious blocker that could become the total package if his pass-catching prowess develops in the coming years.
The Panthers’ depth chart should also have Ian Thomas on board, even though there is much work to do for the player after he failed to become Olsen’s long-term successor when presented with the opportunity last season.
Matt Rhule praised Thomas for his approach to the early offseason period, which should stand him in good stead. But expecting the former fourth-round pick to earn substantial minutes ahead of Arnold and Tremble is a big challenge.