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The Carolina Panthers released long-time standout tight end Greg Olsen over Super Bowl weekend, and the now free agent has begun his tour of teams. Players with expiring contracts cannot talk with new teams until March, but because the Panthers released Olsen before the final year of his contract, he can sign with anybody at any time.
Olsen has already scheduled three trips, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. He is planning visits with the Buffalo Bills, Seattle Seahawks, and Washington in the coming days.
The Bills and Washington both offer some familiarity. Buffalo’s general manager is Brandon Beane, who used to work for the Panthers. Washington’s head coach is Ron Rivera, who was Olsen’s head coach for the tight end’s entire time in Carolina.
All three teams make a lot of sense. Rookie Dawson Knox got off to a decent start for the Bills, but Olsen could be a great mentor for him. Washington tight end Vernon Davis announced his retirement this week, while Jordan Reed’s future is uncertain following extensive concussion symptoms. Seattle has intriguing talent in Will Dissly and Jacob Hollister, but plenty of questions with both. Olsen could push for a role with the Seahawks.