Carolina Panthers tight ends fly under the OTA radar

PHOTO | CURTIS WILSON

All but forgotten as a receiver in his first two NFL seasons, Panthers tight end Tommy Tremble is aiming to jump start his productivity with the arrival of an offense that integrates the position for pass targets.

As backup tight end Tommy Tremble worked his way open and snared a tipped pass from rookie Bryce Young at the back of the end zone, the Carolina Panthers’ offensive sideline erupted in celebration.

Asked if the catch made his offseason training activity Thursday at the Panthers’ practice fields, Tremble smirked and replied: “Yes, sir.”

During the second week of OTAs, most of the franchise’s attention remains focused on Young, the 2023 NFL Draft’s No. 1 overall selection. That media spotlight seems to be leaving the tight end room in the dark.

It’s just what coach Frank Reich wants.

“That’s good, I hope they keep flying under the radar,” Reich said. “I’m very happy with that room.”

Tremble growing into role

With Friday’s return of Hayden Hurst, that room will get a little more crowded – and talented. A free-agent addition, Hurst played injured throughout last season with the Cincinnati Bengals. He underwent groin and hernia surgeries following the AFC title game.

“I feel pretty good,” Hurst said. “Trying to figure out how to run healthy and all that stuff again.”

While limited with what he can do, Hurst said he will make his Panthers’ debut Friday by participating in walk-throughs and air routes.

“It’s fun to get back out there and get in the mix,” Hurst said. “It’s important to get out and knock the rust off. It’s what spring ball is for.

“My goal is to get healthy. I want to play in all 17 games. It’s a big goal of mine.”

Tremble’s goal is different.

As linebacker Shaq Thompson said Thursday, the third-year professional will have a “good, breakout year.”
Maturity will help.

Tremble, who turned 23 on Friday, impressed tight ends coach John Lilly with mature offseason decisions.  

“I think it’s kinda time for him to take another step,” Lilly said. “I think he made a great decision in the offseason—he stayed here, he trained all last offseason. Been very impressed by the way he’s approached the day-by-day and trying to pick it all up and take it to the field.”

‘I’m just excited about leveling up’

During Tremble’s first two seasons with the Panthers, the offense wasn’t “tight end-centric” as Hurst described the new system. Often overlooked, Tremble compiled just 39 career receptions, 354 yards and four touchdowns. The Panthers’ tight-end production has steadily dipped since Greg Olsen departed the franchise following the 2019 campaign.

With Reich mentoring the offense, Tremble said he continues to grow into his role.

“[Tight ends] really didn’t have that many opportunities the past few years,” Tremble said. “Coach Frank Reich shows us what it means to be an NFL-style offense that favors tight ends.  

“So now, learning how to really use the tight end position and doing our job ... it’s a world of difference.”

With veteran Andy Dalton holding down the QB1 role until Young is ready, Reich said Tremble is in a prime position to produce.

"We need good production from that position and there’s roles to fill in our offense,” Reich said. “We, as an offensive staff, are looking … and I think Tommy’s going to fit in very well to what we’re doing.”

During Thursday’s OTA, Tremble worked primarily with the second unit, behind Ian Thomas. Tremble said he is developing “great” chemistry with Young, hauling in several receptions from the rookie during skeleton drills.  

And, of course, the tipped touchdown reception.

“He’s a guy who really knows the game,” Tremble said.  

Tremble said he’s ready to experience a breakthrough campaign.

“I think so, man,” Tremble said. “With what I’m learning from coach Frank, I’ve never learned that before in my life. I’m just excited about leveling up every single time.”

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