The Las Vegas Raiders continue their rebuild after a disappointing 2024 NFL season in which the team failed to make the playoffs. The newly appointed head coach, Pete Carroll, has signed a former Carolina Panthers player for the upcoming campaign, joining quarterback Geno Smith on the offense.
The offseason has brought good news, such as the arrival of Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. The experienced quarterback reconnected with Carroll in Las Vegas and will now be one of the team’s leader on the field. That’s why it’s crucial to see how he will be surrounded.
The former Panthers player joining Carroll’s Raiders is none other than tight end Ian Thomas, as reported by NBC Sports. The 28-year-old veteran arrives after spending his entire career with Carolina, and he is expected to be a valuable weapon for Smith.
Thomas’ numbers in the 2024 NFL season
Thomas joined Carolina after being selected in the fourth round of the 2018 draft. He showed consistent performance throughout his career, but last season saw a decline due to multiple injuries. In five appearances, he only caught three passes for 7 yards in 2024.
Ian Thomas, the new addition for Carroll’s Raiders
The Patriots block an addition for the Raiders
The Raiders were close to signing linebacker Christian Elliss, one of the standout figures of the New England Patriots, in what seemed like a move aligned with their big ambitions for this year. Just when the negotiations appeared favorable for Las Vegas, an unexpected twist occurred.
The news that disrupted the Raiders’ plans was revealed by Mike Reiss of ESPN, stating that the Patriots have offered Elliss a two-year contract, keeping him in Foxborough until the 2026 season.
