In 2012, Greg Olsen surpassed Wesley Walls for the most productive single season in the history of Panthers tight ends.
The Panthers know what they can expect from Olsen but with Gary Barnidge, last year's No. 2 tight end, gone to Cleveland, the team will be looking for a secondary tight end option to emerge for the passing game.
RETURNERS
Greg Olsen
In his second season in Carolina, Olsen set team records for the most catches and receiving yards in a season by a tight end with career highs of 69 catches and 843 receiving yards. ... Started all 16 games and led the Panthers with five touchdown receptions. ... Continues to develop chemistry with quarterback Cam Newton and will once again be relied on as one of the team's go-to targets in 2013.
Ben Hartsock
Re-signed as an unrestricted free agent after playing 15 games and recording two catches in 2012 – his second season in Carolina. ... Veteran of 10 seasons has served primarily as a blocking tight end throughout his career.
Richie Brockel
Versatile player who also contributes at fullback and special teams is entering his third season in Carolina. ... Played in all 16 games last season.
Nelson Rosario
The undrafted rookie out of UCLA spent the entire 2012 season on the practice squad. ... Played in 45 games with 23 starts at UCLA – lining up at wide receiver and H-back – and totaled 146 catches for 2,362 yards and eight touchdowns.
RECENTLY ROSTERED
Brandon Williams
Signed as a free agent in April. ... Spent two years at Oregon following two seasons at Joliet Junior College. ... Did not play as a senior after being diagnosed with a narrow spinal canal and bulging disc in his back.
Panthers.com is taking a position-by-position look at the 90-man roster leading up training camp, having previously profiled quarterbacks, running backs and the offensive line.
