5 free-agent bargains still available for the Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers could sign Blake Jarwin
It’s been a frustrating spell for Blake Jarwin over the last two years. A series of disappointing injuries coupled with a spell on the COVID-19 list restricted the tight end to just nine games in 2020 and 2021 – which left the Dallas Cowboys with no option other than to go in a different direction this offseason.
These complications are also the reason why Jarwin is still looking for employment. The talent is there – he proved that from a rotational role earlier in his career – but keeping the player fresh and firing seems to be the biggest obstacle based on recent history.
The Carolina Panthers have done little to address the tight end spot this offseason. Influential figures within the organization seem confident that Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble can thrive in Ben McAdoo’s scheme, but adding another option for competition in the event both struggle could be a nice contingency plan.
Jarwin is a solid pass-catcher that is a threat across the middle and in the red zone. The Oklahoma State product puts his 6-foot-5 frame to good use and his 73.7 percent catch success rate is a strong indication of just how dependable his hands are.
Carolina has had little consistency from its tight end room since Greg Olsen was allowed to leave in 2020. Although this potential addition would be dependent on Jarwin’s health and whether or not he could make an instant impression.