Finding Greg Olsen’s replacement has been a difficult task for the Carolina Panthers. Since his departure back in 2019 the Carolina Panthers have had one of the most inconsistent tight-end corps in football. In 2020 and 2021 the Panthers tight-ends combined for a total of 649 receiving yards.
For perspective Olsen has five seasons that surpass that total. Now some would say that is due to Carolina having five different men under center since the 2020 season, but that hasn’t stopped the likes of receiver DJ Moore, who has eclipsed over 1000 yards three times with said quarterbacks.
Greg Olsen’s Carolina Days
Before we take a glance at Olsen’s potential replacements, lets take a quick look at Olsen’s career in the blue and white.After being trade from the Bears to the Panthers back in 2011, Olsen became one of the best tight-ends of his era.
Olsen was one of the main catalyst for the 2015-2016 Panthers that had a 15-1 record, MVP Cam Newton and saw a trip to Super Bowl 50, where they faced the Denver Broncos.
In that 2015-2016 season Olsen made one of the most memorable plays as he caught the game wining touchdown against the ‘Legion of Boom’.
Olsen will always be a forgotten players in the 10’s, but to Carolina fans he will always be No.88.
Who in Carolina will step up?
Fifth year tight-end Ian Thomas and second-year tight-end Tommy Tremble will be the main two competing for lead targets this coming season.
Both Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble have a lot to prove as both had subpar seasons last year, but that was largely due to the dysfunction at quarterback.
Even though Tremble is a more younger and athletic option, Thomas is the possible frontrunner due to the Panthers signing Thomas to a three-year $16.95 million dollar contract in February.
This past summer both Thomas and Tremble were invited to the second annual Tight End University, which is hosted by Greg Kittle, Travis Kelce and Carolina’s own Greg Olsen.
That is a great sign for Panther fans as Tight End University is a invite only camp were the best tight-ends in the NFL showcase their skills and pick up game from the best.
Both Tremble and Thomas have shown flashes in their careers, and asking them to mimic the damage Olsen did during his time in Carolina is a tough task.
But for this Panthers offense to take the next step, they are going to need more out of their duo this upcoming season.