Carolina Panthers Sign Jason Avant

Dec 9, 2012; Tampa FL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jason Avant (81) during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Kansas City Chiefs’ safety valve is now in Carolina. Multiple reports say the Panthers have signed Andy Reid‘s former receiver to a one-year deal.

This isn’t a disaster for the Chiefs, but the pressure to find productive players in the draft is now increasing. Reid’s offenses is noted for taking a while to absorb so finding rookies who will be able to step in and be successful will not be an easy task. Avant’s knowledge and success in the system is what made him such an attractive option. Now that option is gone.

There are a few players out there who could potentially be appealing to the Chiefs, but one would think the Chiefs will stay away from signing anyone until after the draft in May. Options could increase in June when some roster cuts may be made to save salary cap room but one would imagine those players could be out of Kansas City’s payroll limit.

Good news here is Reid’s offense is based on distribution and not on having one elite receiver, so finding a receiver or two who fill a small role within the offense will be easier than trying to find Dez Bryant. For this reason there is no reason to panic. Still, stress to find the right guy may be mounting at Arrowhead.