5 exciting Carolina Panthers storylines to watch in 2022 training camp

Can Carolina Panthers TEs improve in Ben McAdoo’s system?

For years, the tight end role in the league was the versatile swiss army knife of the offense who could block on a run play, be a safety valve for a quarterback under pressure, and run an occasional route.

Today, tight ends rival some top-tier wide receivers in the passing game with the likes of Mark Andrews, Travis Kelce, and George Kittle.

The Carolina Panthers will be trotting out Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble in a battle for the starting role. Neither name brings the same notoriety or skillset as the three aforementioned players, but each can be serviceable with room to develop.

Going into camp, this is Thomas’ job to lose as Scott Fitterer just rewarded him with a three-year, $16.5 million contract this offseason.

Thomas’ numbers have not wowed fans with only 18 receptions on 30 targets for 188 receiving yards last season, which was second behind Tremble’s 20 receptions. While the Panthers’ brass kept the former Indiana standout from leaving town, his teammate has a legitimate shot at unseating him as the starter.

Tremble is more athletic, versatile, and has a higher ceiling. As Thomas is the incumbent, keep your eyes on this battle, and do not be surprised to see the Notre Dame product overtake him.