Brandon LaFell could stay with Carolina Panthers, in Charlotte right now
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Brandon LaFell (11) runs after making a catch during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers during the 2013 NFC divisional playoff football game at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
The Carolina Panthers are in dire need of wide receiver help following the release of veteran Steve Smith, and their top target right now is unsurprisingly former New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, who has loads of talent and is a North Carolina native. However, the Panthers are getting worried that they could lose out on him, as he has interest from the San Diego Chargers and a visit with another playoff team in the Indianapolis Colts scheduled for tomorrow.
According to the NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Panthers “have renewed interest” in re-signing Brandon LaFell, who is reportedly in Charlotte today after leaving the New England Patriots without a deal. LaFell has significant interest from the Patriots and Denver Broncos, with the Pats showing stronger interest but the Broncos looking like the more likely landing spot. But at this point, the Panthers have such a big need at WR that they look like his most likely landing spot on paper.
LaFell had arguably the best season of his career last season, as the 27-year-old LSU product caught 49 passes for 627 yards and five touchdowns last season. An excellent run blocker, LaFell is a big receiver who is a solid No.3 wide receiver in this league, and the Panthers would be wise to bring him back, even if they are able to bring Nicks aboard.