Yesterday it was announced that former Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant signed a one year contract with the Carolina Panthers. The 30 year old former 4th round pick in 2006 out of Michigan quickly became a leader on the Eagles as they transitioned away from their Super Bowl core and into two different eras. Avant is known for his sure handedness and locker room presence.
The Panthers were in desperate need of receivers after seeing all three of their top options from their NFL South Division Championship team leave in free agency. As a result, Jason Avant slides right into a starting job with the Panthers along side fellow free-agency signing Jericho Cotchery.
Avant, one of the pre-eminent slot recievers in the league at one point, averaged over 50 receptions and 600 yards per season in Andy Reid's last three season in Philly but saw his statistics decline dramatically in Chip Kelly's offense. With the dearth of receiving options in Carolina and a quarterback in Cam Newton that has more comparable skill to Michael Vick than Nick Foles, this may end up helping Avant's statistical prowess in the short term and extend his career.
Carolina will most certainly be aggressive in the draft when it comes to recievers, but Eagle fans are surely happy to see the classy Jason Avant land in a situation where he can continue his career in a substantial fashion.
