4 Panthers players who could be traded for more draft picks
By Dean Jones
Ian Thomas – Carolina Panthers TE
The case of Ian Thomas and the Carolina Panthers is a curious one. Last season represented one of real opportunity following the team’s decision to let prolific veteran Greg Olsen walk in free agency for the Seattle Seahawks, but it’s safe to say the player failed to make the most of his big chance to shine in a starting role.
There are a lot of mouths to feed in Carolina. They possess multiple weapons in the passing game that clearly took preference. However, considering how much offensive coordinator Joe Brady utilized tight ends at LSU during their convincing national championship success in 2019, his lack of involvement was bizarre.
The former Indiana standout was targeted just 31 times during the 2020 season, bringing in 20 receptions for 145 receiving yards and one touchdown. His run blocking made some eye=catching improvements, but the simple fact of the matter is Carolina needs much more.
They brought in Dan Arnold from the Arizona Cardinals in free agency, with Colin Thompson, Stephen Sullivan, and the potential to bring in another talented weapon via the 2021 NFL Draft also something to consider.
This might see Thomas on the outside looking in. And he has enough in the way of physical attributes to draw some interest from another NFL team if the price is right.