Panthers’ Tight End, Running Back Weaknesses Are Being Overlooked

For months, the conversation surrounding the Carolina Panthers has centered on how much better the defense needs to look. 

But if Carolina falls short this season, it probably won’t be because of its defense — it will be because of two overlooked offensive positions: tight end and running back.

Panthers Need Tight End Help

The most glaring concern regarding their offense is their lack of star power at tight end and running back. At tight end, the Panthers currently rely on Tommy Tremble and Ja’Tavion Sanders. Last season, the two combined for 56 receptions, 439 receiving yards, and three touchdowns.

Decent production, but nothing compared to household names like George Kittle, Tucker Kraft, or Brock Bowers. Clearly, Carolina lacks star power at the position. While the Panthers bolstered the wide receiver corps to help Bryce Young, his safety valve remains in question.

A reliable tight end has long been considered a quarterback’s best friend. They provide one of the easiest, safest, and most reliable targets on the field. They are especially useful when a play breaks down, or the defense takes away the deep pass.

The Panthers could certainly use an upgrade. According to recent reporting, a potential target could be Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson.

Colby Parkinson Could Fit

That name may sound familiar to Panthers fans. Unfortunately, that is because he was on the receiving end of the game-winning touchdown from Matthew Stafford that ended Carolina’s season last year. The six-year veteran tight end recorded 43 receptions, 408 yards, and eight touchdowns last season.

His production nearly doubles the combined output of the two tight ends the Panthers currently employ. Additionally, with the Rams having a crowded tight end room, Parkinson could be available with the right trade package.

The Panthers’ questions don’t stop at tight end, though. Their backfield also carries more uncertainty than many fans may realize.

Chuba Hubbard Needs Support

Carolina cannot establish a formidable passing offense without first establishing the run. Thus, the Panthers are putting a lot of weight on the shoulders of their RB1, Chuba Hubbard.

Last season, Carolina paired him with breakout star Rico Dowdle, whom the team acquired from the Dallas Cowboys. Both backs complemented each other well. Dowdle served as the downhill runner while Hubbard provided more value as a screen-pass option.

But with Dowdle gone, all that remains is Jonathan Brooks. However, Brooks has yet to complete a full season due to multiple injuries since entering the league.

They also quietly added A.J. Dillon. Dillon did not receive much work last season, serving as the backup to Saquon Barkley in Philadelphia. However, during his earlier years in Green Bay, he totaled nearly 2,000 rushing yards on just under 600 carries while averaging 4.7 yards per carry.

Perhaps Carolina will show faith in their running back room, but don’t be surprised if they bring in another option.

Panthers Face Final Decision

The Panthers have done the hard part by rebuilding the defense and surrounding Bryce Young with better weapons on the outside.

Now, the front office has to decide whether the current tight end and running back rooms are enough or if one more move is needed before Week 1.