While players are currently enjoying a break ahead of training camp, the Carolina Panthers’ front office continues to stay busy. Head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan are deep in evaluation mode, determining how the roster stacks up and identifying areas that may still need reinforcement before the 2025 season kicks into gear.
Much attention has been placed on bolstering the secondary, particularly with speculation around interest in veterans like Jaire Alexander and Justin Simmons. However, there’s another key position group that remains quietly under the microscope—tight end.
Team writer Darin Gantt recently highlighted the Panthers’ lack of depth at tight end, an issue that may become even more significant depending on Tommy Tremble’s recovery from offseason back surgery. Gantt explained that while there’s promise in young talents like Ja’Tavion Sanders and rookie Mitchell Evans, the unit remains thin overall.
“Depending on when Tommy Tremble gets back from back surgery, the tight end spot is interesting,” Gantt wrote. “Ja’Tavion Sanders got a lot of reps last year, and he has the potential to become a very good receiver there. And fifth-round rookie Mitchell Evans is going to get the extra work that Sanders got last year. He’s a massive target and will get the chance to create a role for himself while Tremble’s out. Otherwise, they’re thin there.”
Sanders is entering the season with increased expectations. He’s shown improvement in conditioning and sharpness this offseason, giving the coaching staff reason to believe he can emerge as a top receiving threat. Meanwhile, Evans, a sizable and well-rounded prospect, is still untested at the professional level.
Tremble’s injury couldn’t have come at a more unfortunate time. Canales has emphasized a patient approach with the third-year player’s recovery, recognizing that rushing back from a back issue could risk long-term complications.
As the situation unfolds, Morgan and Canales are expected to monitor Tremble’s health closely while also keeping options open. Relying solely on Sanders and Evans could prove risky, and the door remains open to add a veteran tight end should the opportunity present itself.
Ideally, Tremble will return to assume primary blocking duties, freeing Sanders to focus on the passing game and allowing Evans to develop gradually. But the Panthers must stay prepared in case that plan doesn’t go as expected.