The Carolina Panthers will have a new backup tight end behind Greg Olsen next season.
The Panthers have dropped out of the bidding for free agent Ed Dickson, and will host former North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron on a visit Friday, according to league sources.
Ebron, 24, the 10th overall pick in the 2014 draft, was cut by Detroit this week in a move that saved the Lions $8.25 million.
Ebron averaged 47 receptions and 518 yards over his four seasons with the Lions. But Ebron struggled with drops and often bore the brunt of fan criticism after Detroit drafted him ahead of Odell Beckham Jr.