Ian Thomas, the former Carolina Panthers tight end, has officially signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, marking a new chapter in his career after seven seasons in Carolina. Selected in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft from Indiana University, Thomas had his breakout rookie season with 36 receptions, 333 yards, and two touchdowns. In total, he recorded 83 catches for 729 yards and two touchdowns during his tenure with the Panthers.

As Thomas transitions to the Raiders, he brings with him a wealth of experience, being the fourth-longest tenured player on the Panthers' roster behind notable names like JJ Jansen and Shaq Thompson. The Panthers currently have a deep tight end group for 2025, including emerging talents like Tommy Tremble and Ja'Tavion Sanders, making it the right time for Thomas to seek a fresh opportunity in Las Vegas.