5 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers 2023 offseason
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers acquire a marquee TE
After the Carolina Panthers gave Ian Thomas a three-year extension to prevent him from leaving in free agency, hopes were high that he could emerge into a consistent pass-catcher under Ben McAdoo. While his blocking is among the league’s best, this didn’t materialize despite an encouraging first game against the Cleveland Browns.
Tommy Tremble emerged as a sneaky red-zone threat but without much consistent substance overall. This means finding a prominent pass-catcher to bolster Carolina’s tight-end options is imperative for the new regime this offseason.
Fortunately for the Panthers, free agency is littered with prolific performers with proven credentials. Some will get extensions or even the franchise tag, but there should be a few notable options worthy of consideration.
The Panthers haven’t had significant yardage from the tight end position since Greg Olsen departed in 2020 free agency. If they went bold and secured someone like Mike Gesicki, Evan Engram, Dalton Schultz, or Irv Smith Jr., it would change everything.
Going down the draft route is another possibility that shouldn’t be overlooked. But the Panthers need immediate assistance and a veteran could provide just that.