Thomas has been out with a calf injury since training camp began and is expected to remain sidelined until early October, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Twitter/X. In response to this setback, the Panthers have signed tight end Feleipe Franks off the practice squad and released cornerback Keenan Isaac to adjust their roster. Additionally, running back Mike Boone and cornerback Lonnie Johnson have been promoted from the practice squad to the active roster for their season opener against the New Orleans Saints.
Franks, who previously played quarterback at the University of Florida and later transitioned to tight end with the Atlanta Falcons, will provide additional depth at the tight end position, particularly since veteran Timmy Tremble is also out this week. Panthers’ fourth-round rookie Ja’Tavion Sanders will make his first career start on Sunday.
Thomas, who has been with the Panthers since his fourth-round draft selection in 2018, is valued for his blocking abilities, having accumulated over 600 snaps from 2020 to 2022. Over his seven-year career, he has achieved 116 receptions for 1,055 yards and four touchdowns. He signed a four-year, $3.20 million contract as a rookie and had a strong college career at Indiana after transferring from Nassau Community College in 2016.
Following a disappointing 2-15 record in 2023, the Panthers are focused on improving their performance and climbing up the division standings, even though they missed out on the top draft pick, which was claimed by the Chicago Bears for quarterback Caleb Williams.