5 young Panthers players with big opportunities under Steve Wilks
By Dean Jones
Tommy Tremble – Carolina Panthers TE
Finding production from the tight-end position was a problem Matt Rhule simply couldn’t solve. His decision to allow Greg Olsen to depart in free agency for the Seattle Seahawks in 2020 was a mistake despite his advancing years, especially considering how Ian Thomas performed when tasked with major pass-catching responsibilities from a starting role.
Thomas is a willing blocker that’s made one or two nice catches in 2022. However, an eye-catching grab from Tommy Tremble in Week 7 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was a huge step in the right direction and something he can build on over the remaining ten games.
The Panthers saw enough in Tremble to suggest he could become the team’s long-term answer at the tight end spot. Opportunities were limited under Rhule, but the presence of Steve Wilks could be the catalyst that sparks the former Notre Dame star to bigger things moving forward.
Tremble has the athleticism to become a force. There is some work to do regarding route-running efficiency and catching under pressure, but his score last Sunday will likely be a massive confidence boost in the hope of increased involvement.
What comes next is down to Tremble. There’s no doubt Wilks believes in his capabilities, but finding consistency is the only way that tight end isn’t going to become a pressing need for the Panthers next spring.