Carolina Panthers 4-round 2023 NFL mock draft: Bye week edition

Carolina Panthers select Dalton Kincaid

• Tight End | Utah

Ever since Greg Olsen’s departure and eventual retirement, the Carolina Panthers have tried to replace him with players such as Ian Thomas, his supposed successor, and second-year tight end Tommy Tremble. This season, both have flashed but have shown to be inconsistent while Giovanni Ricci and Stephen Sullivan are nothing more than depth chart pieces.

The Panthers need a reliable tight end, plain and simple. While the free agency route could be an intriguing avenue for general manager Scott Fitterer, finding a young security blanket on a rookie contract would allow the front office to focus on other areas of need.

Utah’s Dalton Kincaid has shown to be one of the most productive tight ends in college football this season. Averaging just under 13 yards per catch, the senior leads all players at his position in receiving yards.

Kincaid has been the focal point for the Utes this season. He displays excellent body control and ball skills that make him a reliable target in the passing game. While the prospect isn’t a terrific athlete, he has enough athleticism to be effective in space.

My only concern with Kincaid is his lack of mass and strength. Yet, I believe that once he gets into an NFL weight room and conditioning program, he could develop into an adequate all-around weapon for the Panthers.

Acquiring Jalin Hyatt and Dalton Kincaid to surround your rookie QB? C.J. Stroud would start getting comfy in this offense.