The Carolina Panthers have been shuffling their feet when it comes to signing wide receivers and now they are not left with much. After a breakout year on offense thanks to the development of quarterback Cam Newton, but after saying goodbye to two strong targets, the team could be taking a step back. As free agency continues on, the Panthers have wide receivers on the brain.
Steve Smith and Brandon LaFell will not be back in Carolina next season. The all-time leading receiver signed with the Baltimore Ravens after being a salary cap casualty while LaFell signed on with the New England Patriots after getting offered a favorable long-term contract. 2013's leading receiver Greg Olsen will be back, but after that Newton does not have anyone to throw to.
The Panthers had shown a lot of interest in free agents when the market first opened. Hakeem Nicks was a top target. However, he rejected their contract offer and signed with the Indianapolis Colts. Julian Edelman was an option but he re-signed to the Patriots. James Jones was of interest, but the Oakland Raiders swept him up.
Now, Carolina is left with the second-tier players. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the team is bringing in troubled Tennessee Titans receiver Kenny Britt for a workout. Britt was a star at one point for the Titans, but a falling out with the coaching staff ended his production on the field. Several teams are interested in Britt despite his attitude and injury history, so if Carolina was wise, they would sign him quickly. The St. Louis Rams are also targeting Britt which reunites him with his former head coach, Jeff Fisher.
If Britt is unavailable, the Charlotte Observer writes that Mario Manningham could be of interest. The wide receiver spent last season with the San Francisco 49ers and was a crucial member of the New York Giants when the team won their recent Super Bowl title. Manningham is very familiar with Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman after they spent time together in New York. The Giants are trying to bring Manningham back, so again the Panthers should make a move.
Britt and Manningham are two of the best available. Outside of them, Santonio Holmes could be an option if he can pass a physical or Darrius Heyward-Bey who is finished with his one season on the Colts. If the Panthers are not careful, they will be left with rookies in the draft.