4 Panthers players on the hot seat at the midseason point

Ian Thomas – Carolina Panthers TE

Ian Thomas is skating on thin ice for the Carolina Panthers. His pursuit of becoming the team’s long-term No. 1 option at the tight end position appears to be dwindling with every passing game and things may already be past the point of no return.

The Panthers made a big move by deciding not to bring back Greg Olsen, who was a prolific member of their passing attack. This dependability over the middle is something that has been sorely missed by the organization and it remains to be seen whether Thomas can raise his level of performance sufficiently to become more involved in the passing attack.

Offensive coordinator Joe Brady loved using his tight ends in college. The likes of Thaddeus Moss became an integral part of LSU’s National Championship triumph in 2019, so it appears somewhat bizarre that Thomas has been so ineffective.

The former Indiana standout has just 10 receptions from 15 targets to his name. This has resulted in 78 receiving yards, one touchdown, and not one broken tackle as yet, which is just not good enough for a player of Thomas’ outstanding physical attributes.

Carolina needs more help at the spot to possibly propel their offense to even greater heights. If the right opportunity becomes available, it might see them address this prior to the trade deadline on November 3.