3 things we learned from the Panthers’ loss at the Bucs
By Dean Jones
Ian Thomas continues to be a non-factor
It’s officially time to be concerned regarding Ian Thomas‘ involvement. The Carolina Panthers opted not to give the tight end a single look at the Bucs, which represents a distinct lack of confidence in the player.
Thomas might still be dealing with a toe injury. But if he is fit enough to take his place on the roster, the former Indiana standout should be able to make a difference on the field.
This follows on from Thomas getting just two balls thrown his way against the Raiders, which is simply not what everyone was expecting from the player during the preparation period.
Big things were expected of Thomas in his pursuit of filling the void left by prolific veteran Greg Olsen. To say this is not the best start to the season for him would be something of an understatement and not receiving a target in a game they threw the ball 42 times is a damning verdict on his potential going forward.
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If Thomas doesn’t make the necessary strides in the coming weeks, then he could be on borrowed time in Carolina. This might be a health issue, which is understandable. But then again, it might not and we will only know for sure if he is a non-factor in Week 3 at the Los Angeles Chargers and beyond.