While the Carolina Panthers wide receiver depth chart continues to make grow men cry and the team sits and waits to fix it, one veteran who could help the team may not be on the market much longer. Reggie Wayne, who spent 14 seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, is headed to New England to take a physical.
The Patriots depth at receiver has taken a hit as of late, with both short-term and long-term injuries. Brian Tyms, who was competing to be New England's fifth receiver, recently suffered a foot injury that could cost him the entire season. Meanwhile, Aaron Dobson, the favorite to be New England's fourth receiver, is being held out with a hamstring injury, Julian Edelman is out for undisclosed reasons and Brandon LaFell just got out of a protective boot in July and has yet to play in the preseason.
While Schefter reports it's just a physical right now, it's an important step in the process given Wayne's final season in Indianapolis and his release, due to multiple injuries. The 36-year-old played through a torn triceps last season and had surgery in December, so New England needs to get the full check over before giving him a contract.
If Wayne signs with the Patriots, he will likely see a significant role depending on the health of LaFell and Edelman. If both players are healthy, Wayne will be behind Rob Gronkowski, Edelman and LaFell for targets. With Jimmy Garoppolo expected to start the first four games, there would be little value early. Later on when Tom Brady returns, perhaps Wayne could provide depth for fantasy teams in 12-team leagues