4 remaining obstacles preventing Panthers long-term progress

Carolina Panthers need a pass-catching TE

There’s been almost no consistent pass-catching production at the tight end position since the Carolina Panthers decided to let veteran Greg Olsen leave in 2020 free agency. Something that hasn’t changed at all since Ben McAdoo came into the fold as offensive coordinator.

McAdoo’s usage of tight ends throughout his career makes the situation even more bizarre. Unless this changes next season and beyond that, it will restrict what the Panthers are able to do offensively.

Every contending NFL team these days needs a consistent pass-catching tight end. Someone that teams account for in key situations and in the red zone.

Ian Thomas is among the league’s best blockers from the tight end spot. However, there’s enough evidence to suggest he’ll never reach the heights of his rookie campaign in the passing game, so getting another option to put alongside the former Indiana standout would be wise.

Tommy Tremble doesn’t look like he’ll become what the Panthers envisaged when they selected him out of Notre Dame. Although much like Thomas, there is a lot to like about his blocking ability in certain situations.

Fortunately for those in power, this is a pretty decent class coming from the college ranks in 2023. Something that Carolina should take advantage of in pursuit of giving the offense another shot in the arm.