Panthers General Manager Dave Gettleman has come in for some criticism this week after the Panthers released Steve Smith, lost Brandon LaFell and watched Hakeem Nicks sign with the Colts.
That’s left the team threadbare at wide receiver and comes as part of an offseason that’s seen a lot more talent leave Carolina than join the team. In the case of Nicks, at least, it wasn’t for a lack of trying by the Panthers.
“Yeah they made an offer when I talked to Dave Gettleman. But you know it just didn’t pan out the right way. I feel like this is the best fit for me,” Nicks said, via Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer. “After talking to Gettleman, I think he agreed that this was the best situation for me, too, even though they made the offer. Like I said I feel like I made the best decision and I’m ready to make the best of it.”
Nicks’ deal with the Colts is reportedly for $3.5 million with incentives that could bump the value to $5.5 million. If he plays well on that contract, he’ll be in better position to get a long-term deal next offseason. Playing with Reggie Wayne and T.Y. Hilton in an offense with Andrew Luck at the controls may offer him fewer chances than he would have gotten as a clear No. 1 wideout in Carolina, but there should be plenty of opportunity for Nicks to make plays and restore his reputation after two down years with the Giants.