The Carolina Panthers should be holding rookie minicamps and OTAs right now, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic shutting the sports world down, fans are left speculating on how the Panthers roster will look.
Even With last month’s draft completed, there’s still the possibility of some late moves before training camp is tentatively scheduled to start.
WFNZ will take a look at each Carolina position over the next few weeks to see where each group stands.
Carolina signed DeVale and Thompson to one-year deals and signed Sutton and Ricci to undrafted free agent deals.
Olsen has been the team’s starter since 2011 and despite a decline and injuries the last two years, he was still the go-to tight end.
Thomas is entering his third season and has plenty of potential but has yet to show he can be a starting-caliber tight end.
Thomas has had a handful of starts the last two years and has struggled to find his footing in the offense. In a new offense, now is his time to shine as the team’s starter.
Manhertz has been more of a blocking tight end during his four years with the team and he should remain in that role but can also see more looks in the offense as the team’s backup.
DeValve and Thompson will be fighting for the backup role behind Thomas as both have been role players in the league the last few years.
It’s also a small possibility that the Panthers find a gem in either Sutton or Ricci during training camp.
Manhertz will continue to be the team’s blocker but it’s possible this is just a bridge-year for the group before Carolina invests in a tight end with more potential.