The Las Vegas Raiders have added more depth to their tight end group by signing veteran Ian Thomas. Despite tight end being one of the team’s stronger positions, the Raiders needed another player after Harrison Bryant joined the Philadelphia Eagles in free agency. The team announced on Tuesday that Thomas, who spent his entire NFL career with the Carolina Panthers, is officially joining the roster.
Thomas, a fourth-round pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, started 54 games over seven seasons with Carolina. He was solid during his time there and earned a three-year, $16.95 million extension in 2022. However, injuries derailed his progress, landing him on Injured Reserve in each of the last two seasons. He appeared in just five games during the 2024 season. When healthy, Thomas is considered a reliable option at tight end and should provide quality depth for Las Vegas.
This signing could further fuel trade speculation surrounding Michael Mayer, the Raiders’ former second-round pick. With rookie Brock Bowers expected to lead the tight end group, Mayer could benefit from a fresh start with a team where he’d be the top option. Adding Thomas gives the Raiders more flexibility if a trade offer for Mayer surfaces. Details of Thomas’ contract haven’t been released yet, but it is believed to be a one-year deal.
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