The 2023 NFL Draft is loaded with talent at the tight end position and it might be the deepest we've seen in the last decade. But the free agent tight end class is also extremely talented with a few big-time names.
In one way or another, the Panthers need to add a pass-catching threat at the position. The draft would be cheaper, but if they want a proven commodity, they could aim to sign one of the top available players next week in free agency. Who should they consider if that's the route they opt to go down?
Mike Gesicki
In five seasons with the Miami Dolphins, Gesicki has recorded 231 receptions for 2,617 yards, and 18 touchdowns. Not only has he been super productive but he has been durable since entering the league back in 2018 missing just one game. For a team that has to be smart with how it allocates money this offseason, Gesicki makes a ton of sense for those two reasons. He's productive and he stays on the field. You know what you're getting and odds are, he's going to live up to what ever contract he gets.
Dalton Schultz
Schultz may be a tight end but he has the skillset of an outside receiver. Very good hands, making him a reliable go-to target on third downs and in the red zone and has the ability to get separation. Throughout his five-year career in the NFL, Schultz has caught 70% of passes thrown his way. The downside is, he's probably going to demand the most money of any of the free agents. According to spotrac, he's listed at a market value of $15 million/year.
Robert Tonyan
Tonyan had a breakout season in 2020, hauling in 52 receptions for 586 yards and 11 touchdowns. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to back that up in 2021 suffering a season-ending Grade 3 ACL tear in late October. He did, however, bounce back this past year removing any doubt about the recovery from the knee injury. He ended the season with 53 catches for 470 yards and two scores.
Austin Hooper
A familiar face to Panthers fans as Hooper played the first four years of his career in Atlanta with the Falcons. He hasn't boasted big numbers since he left Atlanta following the 2019 campaign, but he's been consistent, averaging 41.6 receptions, 408 yards, and three touchdowns over the past three seasons. He'll likely be the cheapest of the options I've listed.
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