4 Panthers cuts before the 2021 season that would surprise no one
By Dean Jones
Ian Thomas – Carolina Panthers TE
If Ian Thomas is released by the Carolina Panthers this offseason, there wouldn’t be one raised eyebrow and the tight end could only blame himself. The former Indiana star was poised for a breakout campaign in 2020 after the organization decided to part ways with Greg Olsen, who became a huge part of the franchise both on and off the field.
Thomas didn’t do enough for whatever reason to convince the staff he was worthy of a more prominent role on offense. His 31 targets throughout the season paled in comparison to the 46 he generated as a rookie filling in for the injured Olsen, so it’s hard to look at this sort of career trajectory with any great confidence.
There is some extra competition for places at the tight end spot this offseason after the Panthers signed Dan Arnold in free agency from the Arizona Cardinals and spent a third-round selection on Tommy Tremble out of Notre Dame.
Much will depend on just how many tight ends Carolina plans to take with them onto the 53-man roster. The Panthers would save $2.18 million on their cap if they released Thomas with one year remaining on his deal, which could probably be better spent elsewhere given his production last season.
This would be a sad end to Thomas’ time with the Panthers. But he’s young enough to get another opportunity elsewhere.