NFL Free Agency 2011: Will Jeremy Shockey Help the Carolina Panthers?

Jeremy Shockey signed a one-year, $3 million deal with the Carolina Panthers today, after being released by the New Orleans Sainst last week.

Shockey was a four-time Pro Bowl tight end with his first team, the New York Giants and could be a great addition to the Carolina offense.

However, Shockey is prone to injuries. He was injured in his final season with the Giants and could not play in their Super Bowl win. Then, he battled injuries during his entire tenure in New Orleans.

When he was healthy though, he was an excellent tight end.

Another downside to Shockey is his attitude and personality.

When he was with the Giants, Shockey frequently clashed with coaches and teammates. Shockey clashed with quarterback Eli Manning, frustrated anytime he didn't recieve a pass.

He also had a few clashes with head coach Tom Coughlin, whose disciplinarian style was not appreciated by Shockey.

Since them, Shockey's personality seemed to be toned down in New Orleans. Perhaps he just got along better with head coach Sean Payton, or quarterback Drew Brees, who is more dominant than Manning was.

How will Shockey fare in Carolina?

As far as his play, as long as he stays healthy, he should be a help. Shockey's biggest problem remains his personality. If he has matured and grown out of his petulant behavior, then there should not be a problem.

On the other hand though, if Shockey's personality was just masked by the dominant Brees and Payton, then there could be a problem.

Head coach Ron Rivera and second-year quarterback Jimmy Clausen will probably not be enough to keep Shockey simmered.