The Jacksonville Jaguars have a logjam at tight end. They just gave Brenton Strange an extension, and both rookies Nate Boerkircher and Tanner Koziol are poised to have big roles on the new-look offense. Lost in the shuffle are Quintin Morris and Hunter Long. Both were productive last year, but could end up being the victims of the numbers game come cutdown day.
While having too many good players is always a good problem to have, the Jags simply won't have room for both Morris and Long. The Carolina Panthers could take that problem off their hands.
The Panthers could be a trade destination for Hunter Long
Tight end is an area of concern for Carolina heading into the regular season. Tommy Tremble was their No. 1 last year (based on his snap count), and his production leaves much to be desired. A third-round pick in 2021, he's never had more than 27 receptions in a season. The issue is that the Panthers don't have much better alternatives behind him.
Ja'Tavion Sanders and James Mitcher are Carolina's top options at tight end aside from Tremble. The duo had a combined 32 receptions last year. While that's not necessarily bad production coming from backups, Sanders averaged a measly 6.6 yards per reception. There's no doubt that Carolina could use a boost at the position, and Hunter Long could provide, or at worst, provide competition.
A third-round pick by the Miami Dolphins in 2021, Long dealt with injuries early in his career, which is why the Phins gave up on him in 2023. He quickly bolted for the Los Angeles Rams, where he spent two seasons, before landing with the Jags on a two-year deal in 2025.
Hunter didn't get much playing time behind Brenton Strange, registering just 12 receptions for 85 yards with two touchdowns. That said, he did show playmaking skills with his limited opportunities.
However, the former Boston College Eagle could be a cap casualty. Releasing him would free up $1.38 million in space with $1.37 million in dead money. While that's not a lot, it isn't chump change either. That said, it wouldn't hurt the Jags to look for a trade partner. They won't get anything better than a seventh, but it would be better than outright cutting ties with him in exchange for nothing.
Why the Jaguars could trade Hunter Long to the Panthers or any other team
There are no rumors connecting Hunter Long to the Panthers or any other team, but they would be a realistic landing spot due to their need at tight end. The Green Bay Packers would also make sense, as he would give them insurance while Tucker Kraft recovers from an ACL tear he suffered last year.
Either way, the Jags probably won't keep Long next season. And if they carry four tight ends, which is a possibility, Morris may get the nod because he's a better blocker and better fits the team's offensive philosophy.
The truth is that the Jaguars have built a well-rounded tight end room. The downside is that they may no longer have room for Hunter Long. Still, he could help a team that's in need of reinforcements at tight end.
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