4 Carolina Panthers players who caught the eye at OTAs
By Dean Jones
Ian Thomas – Carolina Panthers TE
It’s well documented that things did not turn out as expected where Ian Thomas was concerned in 2020. The Carolina Panthers were expecting big things from the tight end after they opted to let Greg Olsen walk in free agency, but his distinct lack of involvement in the passing game left plenty wondering just what his long-term future holds.
Thomas faces a real fight for playing time following the additions of Dan Arnold and Tommy Tremble, who are now the favorites to start ahead of the former Indiana standout.
However, judging by the recent murmurings from OTAs, Thomas has been working exceptionally hard during the offseason and drew plenty of praise from Matt Rhule for the way he’s responded to what is going to be a significant challenge in the coming weeks.
Speaking to reporters, Rhule stated that Thomas has had a “tremendous offseason” and looks far more explosive this time around. Whether this is something that can force him back into the team’s plans is up for debate, but the Panthers are clearly going to let him determine his own future during training camp.
Thomas has all the talent in the world and showed what he could do as a rookie when Olsen was forced to the sidelines. Things haven’t progressed according to plan since, but the player is not ready to be written off just yet.