AP

The Browns appear poised to add to their options at tight end.

Free agent Panthers tight end Gary Barnidge is “expected to sign” with Cleveland, Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer reported Wednesday.

This is a logical pairing. New Browns head coach Rob Chudzinski, the Panthers’ offensive coordinator the last two seasons, is familiar with the 27-year-old Barnidge. The sixth-year pro from Louisville caught six passes for 78 yards and one TD in 2012 for Carolina. According to Pro Football Focus, Barnidge played 140 snaps in the regular season.

Veteran Browns tight ends Benjamin Watson and Alex Smith are unrestricted free agents.