Since Greg Olsen left the Carolina Panthers, following the 2019 season, the organization has posted the lowest numbers from the tight end position. Ian Thomas was originally thought to be a suitable replacement for Olsen, but he has failed to live up to those expectations after six years of service. Tommy Tremble has shown promise but questions remain whether he can be a mid-tier pass catcher at the tight end position in the NFL. 

Just last year, the Panthers signed Hayden Hurst to a free agent deal but a combination of injuries and low production led Hurst to be a one-and-done in Carolina. 

Despite having a major need at the position during free agency, the Panthers didn't address the hole at tight end until the 2024 NFL Draft, where the team selected Texas tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders. Sanders comes to Carolina with the reputation of being a playmaker in the pass game at the position. Will Sanders finally prove to be the replacement for Greg Olsen? 

How does the rest of the TE room shape up with the addition of Sanders? Will Tommy Tremble take another step forward? Can Ian Thomas be more than a blocking TE?

Julian Council continues his positional breakdowns of the Carolina Panthers by focusing in on the TE room. 

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