The Panthers might not have anything resembling a solid No. 1 wide receiver.
But they’re now closer to having an acceptable collection of No. 2s and No. 3s.
The team announced they had signed former Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant to a one-year deal.
He’ll pair up with Jerricho Cotchery as another guy who played a bit role for a team in the past, but will be counted on more heavily now.
The Panthers had nothing to speak of at the position after cutting Steve Smith and letting the rest of their wideouts walk into free agency.
Avant had 38 catches for 447 yards and two scores last year with the Eagles, but averaged 52 catches for 633 yards per year over the three that preceded Chip Kelly’s arrival in Philadelphia.
“We are happy to have Jason with the Panthers,” says head coach Ron Rivera. “He provides a versatile player at receiver and brings good size as well as experience to the position.”
Again, it’s not a signing on its own that will turn the Panthers around. But if they can put the right kids alongside him, it’s at least a positive step for Cam Newton.