5 potential liabilities on the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers TE production
After another season of minimal contribution from the tight end position, the Carolina Panthers made little changes to the team’s options. Ian Thomas was handed a new three-year deal when many thought he’d be let go, which was down in no small part to the presence of offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo.
The complex scheme implemented by McAdoo relies heavily on tight ends coming up with plays. Thomas has the physical tools to become a force, so it would be a big surprise if the Indiana product didn’t make improvements with a new play-caller.
Tommy Tremble is also expected to build on a rookie year where he flashed promise. The Panthers also brought Stehen Sullivan onto their 53-man roster after some splash plays in camp and during the preseason.
McAdoo is the key to all this. Blocking on the edge where Tremble and Thomas are concerned is not the issue, it’s finding ways to get them involved in the passing game that represents the primary complication.
With Christian McCaffrey returning to health and an abundance of weapons in the wide receiver room, there should be enough space for Carolina’s tight ends providing they can get open. If both fail to meet expectations once again, then expect the Panthers to go in a completely different direction next spring.