The pre-draft process continues, with San Diego State tight end Gavin Escobar set to meet with the Panthers -- according to Tony Pauline.
Escobar is another curious pre-draft meeting, solely because of his standing in the draft class. A 6-6, 245-lbs pass catcher, he was used primarily in a 'big receiver' role for the Aztecs, rather than lining up as a true inline tight end. He finished his junior season with 543 yards receiving, and six touchdowns. Escobar was also San Diego State's leading receiver -- out-catching the next nearest receiver by almost 20 receptions, and 200 yards.
Slated to be a 2nd or 3rd round selection (according to CBS Sports), this is an interesting visit for the Panthers. Most likely they're hoping Escobar will be available in the 4th round, but at this point the team are looking for weapons -- regardless of position. It's still most likely Carolina will take a wide receiver in the first two rounds, but if the board isn't favorable it wouldn't be outside the realm of possibility that the team look to emulate New England's approach by having two field-stretching tight ends, rather than traditional wide receivers.
(h/t to rtb285 for his fanshot)