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ESPN Tabs Panthers as Best Fit for Free-Agent TE Jonnu Smith

Carolina’s thin tight end group makes Smith’s catch-and-run game a natural fit for Bryce Young.

Overview

  • Jonnu Smith remains unsigned after Pittsburgh released him this offseason, and ESPN’s Matt Bowen identified the Panthers as his best landing spot.
  • Bowen highlights Smith’s alignment versatility and yards-after-catch production, projecting him as a short-range target who can ease throws for Bryce Young.
  • Carolina enters the post-draft phase with Tommy Tremble atop a young tight end room that includes Ja'Tavion Sanders and Mitchell Evans, leaving a need for a proven receiver at the position.
  • Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay points to the Giants as an alternative, arguing New York could use Smith as an established receiving threat in multi–tight end sets.
  • Smith made the Pro Bowl in 2024 with Miami (88 catches, 884 yards, 8 TDs) before a quiet 2025 in Pittsburgh, and his nine-year career totals sit at 345 receptions for 3,529 yards and 30 touchdowns.