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Veteran Panthers Pass-Catcher Stealing Spotlight from Exciting Rookie

Panthers TE Ian Thomas was one of the biggest winners of Carolina's offseason training, becoming a featured pass-catcher in Dave Canales' offense.

By Joe Summers

Jan 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) drops back to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) drops back to pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports / Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
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The Panthers open training camp in a little under a month, though Carolina appears to be much improved from last year. They are hoping to compete in a relatively weak NFC South division as soon as this season.

QB Bryce Young has a capable group of skill-position players around him and one surprising name is emerging as a standout weapon from summer workouts thus far.

While fans anxiously await fourth-round rookie TE Ja'Tavion Sanders and the impact he can have, there's a veteran tight end who was named the 'surprise standout' of OTAs and minicamp.

Panthers TE Ian Thomas Shining During Offseason Training

Thomas has been known more for his blocking prowess than his downfield pass-catching ability, though he's shown flashes. With Sanders providing competition, Thomas might be tapping into his potential.

ESPN Panthers beat reporter David Newton identified Thomas as a player to watch. Newton writes, "It has been 2018 fourth-rounder Thomas who has stolen the spotlight at a position that is featured in Dave Canales' passing game. Thomas had only five catches last season and was kept around because of his skills as a blocker."

Canales has a scheme friendly to tight ends, with second-year tight end Cade Otton breaking out for Tampa Bay last season.

Thomas "has become a big target at a position for which the Panthers ranked last in the NFL the past four seasons with a total of 181 catches for 1,734 yards and 10 touchdowns," continues Newton. "Even Thomas admitted he's looking more like Travis Kelce these days."

While Kelce might be a lofty comparison, this is excellent news for Panthers fans hoping to see a more explosive passing game. Adam Thielen, Diontae Johnson, Xavier Legette, and Sanders all figure to see solid volume, though perhaps now Thomas is throwing his name in the mix.

Even if Thomas winds up with limited involvement, he's drawing such high praise, which is fantastic news for Carolina's offense as a whole.

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