6 major gambles the Carolina Panthers are clearly going to make in 2022

Carolina Panthers are gambling on Ian Thomas as TE1

Perhaps one of the most surprising moves made by the Carolina Panthers happened relatively early. The team took the decision to give Ian Thomas a new deal despite many believing this would be the end of his time with the franchise, which was met with derision by large sections of the fanbase who wanted them to go in a different direction.

Upon further review, this doesn’t appear to be all that bad, The tight end market was extortionate and calculated well by Samir Suleiman, with the influence of new offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo playing a significant role in the former fourth-round pick staying around.

While Joe Brady seldom-used tight ends effectively in the passing game, McAdoo’s system is exactly the opposite. He obviously feels like an athletic presence such as Thomas can thrive under his leadership, with his improved blocking ability another element that’s come on leaps and bounds of late.

This contract also gives Carolina an out next year if Thomas cannot make a better go of things under McAdoo. An added sense of urgency that could bring additional production providing he proves worthy of more responsibility during the offseason.

Hopes also remain high that Tommy Tremble can continue developing from a pass-catching standpoint. But going with Thomas as the team’s No.1 option is a massive call to make considering what the stakes are in 2022.