7 Carolina Panthers players who could be gone after the 2021 season
By Dean Jones
Ian Thomas – Carolina Panthers TE
The early reports emanating from the offseason program regarding Ian Thomas have been positive. Head coach Matt Rhule singled the tight end out for significant praise for the way he’s worked on his game during the offseason, which could mean bigger and better things for the Carolina Panthers in 2021.
Thomas had the biggest opportunity last season. One he failed to capitalize on.
He was chosen as the first man to potentially become Greg Olsen’s long-term successor. But for whatever reason, he was a non-factor in the passing game and left the Panthers with no alternative other than to seek alternative options this offseason.
Dan Arnold was brought in during free agency after a career year with the Arizona Cardinals. Carolina also used a third-round pick on Tommy Tremble out of Notre Dame, who is seen more as a blocker with the potential to be a complete tight end providing there is a little more refinement.
Thomas seems to have taken on this challenge with the right attitude, which is pleasing.
However, he’ll need to make his presence felt in a similar fashion to what we saw during his rookie season to earn a longer commitment.
Much will depend on just how much Thomas involves himself. But the odds are stacked against the Indiana product being on the roster in 2022.