As the Carolina Panthers embark on a youthful revival, second-year tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders is poised to play a crucial role in their success. Drafted 101st overall in 2024, Sanders had an impressive rookie season, accumulating more receiving yards than any Panthers tight end since the legendary Greg Olsen. Despite a setback with a neck injury against the Kansas City Chiefs, Sanders returns to offseason workouts in better shape and ready to seize the opportunity with veteran Tommy Tremble sidelined and rookie Mitchell Evans in transition.

With Sanders demonstrating significant promise, he stands to establish himself as the Panthers' long-term TE1, especially with other tight ends struggling to adapt. His return to form is not only vital for the team's offensive strategy but could also yield significant fantasy football implications, particularly in a league that increasingly values the tight end position.

The Carolina Panthers kicked off their 2025 Organized Team Activities (OTAs) with positive feedback from head coach Dave Canales, who described the session as a "great day." Notably, defensive lineman Derrick Brown was present on the field, indicating a promising recovery from his meniscus surgery, although he did not participate in drills. Tight end Tommy Tremble, however, recently underwent back surgery, raising concerns about his availability for the start of the season; the team hopes he will be ready for training camp.

Additionally, receiver Hunter Renfrow is making strides after missing the entire 2024 season due to health issues, and there are high hopes for second-year wideout Xavier Legette, who is showing improved confidence and speed. The Panthers also scheduled joint practices with the Houston Texans as they prepare for their preseason matchup, signaling a proactive approach as they build team chemistry and assess their roster ahead of the upcoming season.

Tommy Tremble's upcoming NFL season remains uncertain as he has undergone back surgery, with his return timeline being unclear. The former Notre Dame tight end and current Carolina Panthers player is expected to be on the physically unable to perform list during training camp as he focuses on rehabilitation. At just 25 years old, this setback is unfortunate for Tremble, who has already contributed 85 receptions for 782 yards and nine touchdowns since being selected in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The Panthers will be monitoring his progress closely.

The Carolina Panthers are grappling with the loss of tight end Tommy Tremble, who recently underwent successful back surgery. Head coach Dave Canales confirmed the procedure, emphasizing the importance of addressing the issue early in Tremble's career. At just 25 years old, the team opted for surgery now to ensure he has ample time to recover and return to his best before the upcoming season. Tremble re-signed with the Panthers in March on a two-year deal worth $10.5 million and has demonstrated his value with 85 receptions for 782 yards and nine touchdowns in his four seasons in the NFL.

While the Panthers are optimistic about Tremble's recovery, they are preparing for his absence in organized team activities and potentially affecting their offensive game plan. Canales mentioned that the team fully expects Tremble to participate in training camp later this summer, indicating confidence in his rehabilitation process. However, his situation presents a significant impact on the tight end position depth for the Panthers as they look to solidify their roster ahead of the new season.

The Carolina Panthers have taken an intriguing step by signing Colin Granger, a 6-foot-9, 225-pound former Division I basketball player, to develop as a tight end. This marks a significant transition for Granger, who spent five years in college basketball before making the leap to football. Coach Dave Canales and GM Dan Morgan, who previously worked with George Fant, are optimistic about Granger’s potential to follow in the footsteps of NFL tight end legends.

Competing for playing time against established players like Tommy Tremble and rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders, Granger's journey will be closely watched. With the Panthers aiming for a versatile offensive strategy, Granger's unique background may provide an edge as he learns the nuances of football.