The Carolina Panthers have a couple new faces to fit in at tight end. In the 2021 NFL draft, they took Notre Dame’s Tommy Tremble in the third round. In free agency, they signed former Cardinals and Saints veteran Dan Arnold. Together, the hope is they’ll give this unit some punch that’s been lacking the last few years – even if Ian Thomas continues to flounder.
Tremble was one of the best blockers in college football and projects to take over Chris Manhertz’s former role. Arnold is more of a pass-catcher and coach Matt Rhule took time to praise his game after today’s practice.
“He is an excellent receiver. We see him being a red zone threat, 3rd down threat, vertical passing game threat at the tight end position. He’s a grinder, he’s a worker, he finds ways to get his hands on balls, and he’s the ultimate brand guy. He loves to compete. He’s a good veteran for the young guys to look up to.”
Arnold’s traditional stats don’t exactly jump out at you. In 31 games he’s posted 51 catches, 715 yards and seven touchdowns. However, he has been productive given his volume. For his career, Arnold has a 116.9 passer rating when targeted.
