5 tight ends the Carolina Panthers could sign in 2022 free agency

Which tight ends could the Carolina Panthers potentially target in 2022 free agency despite signing Ian Thomas to a contract extension?

Historically, Carolina Panthers fans have had the pleasure of rooting for tight ends such as Wesley Walls, Jeremy Shockey, and Greg Olsen as they represented grit, determination, and the ability to make big plays when it mattered.

On that front with the current regime, the Panthers are currently employing second-year-pro Tommy Tremble, former Temple star Colin Thompson, LSU product Stephen Sullivan, and Ian Thomas, who is fresh off signing a three-year deal worth up to $16.5 million with a guarantee of $8 million.

Thomas, the incumbent starter, is primarily known as a blocking tight end with career stats of just 802 receiving yards and four touchdowns over four seasons. General manager Scott Fitterer rewarded the former fourth-round pick with his new contract after a 2021 campaign that consisted of 18 receptions for a dismal 188 yards and no touchdowns.

With new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo replacing Joe Brady, tight ends will be more involved in the passing game. Something that could see Thomas’ production increase as a result.

To do so efficiently and effectively, the Panthers will need to sign a solid pass-catching playmaker who can alleviate pressure from Thomas and give the quarterback another viable weapon. Tremble could become this over time, but he clearly needs some work.

With this in mind, here are five free-agent tight ends the Panthers should consider signing to bolster the position.