Jason Avant, potential KC Chiefs free agent interest, visiting Carolina Panthers

The Philadelphia Eagles released Jason Avant last month and everyone quickly said the Kansas City Chiefs made the most sense as his next destination. But Avant will be visiting the Carolina Panthers, not the Chiefs. The Panthers have arguably the biggest need at receiver in the league after losing Steve Smith.

Avant, the 30-year old receiver who played seven seasons under Andy Reid, plays a position of need for the Chiefs. There were reports that the Chiefs would have some level of interest in Avant after the Eagles released him in early March.

Andy Reid was asked a couple weeks ago at the NFL owners meetings about Avant and didn't give much of an answer. Here's that exchange:

Q: Is there any truth to the rumor of you bringing in WR Jason Avant?

Reid: "Listen, he's a top notch kid. When he was released, I had a chance to talk to him on a personal standpoint. Potentially down the road, but we'll just see how it works out."

Q: So nothing on Avant right now?

Reid: "I don't have anything on it right now. But you guys know, he's a top notch kid."

The best explanation might be that the Chiefs are waiting until after the draft as Adam Teicher wonders here. It's pretty clear that the Chiefs are hoping to target a receiver in the draft so drafting one early could negate the need for Avant, which could be the reason they wait until after the draft.

Avant is a solid but not spectacular receiver. He does not have top end speed but does have very good hands. He could play in the slot.