7 years agoWith Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen (foot) likely out for an extended time, rookie Ian Thomas will have the first crack at replacing him moving forward. Chris Manhertz is another option. Jason Vander Laan could also be brought up from the practice squad to provide depth. Thomas, a fourth-round pick, has made the transition to the NFL look smooth and has impressed with smooth route running and catching and effectiveness as a blocker. He's been compared by some analysts to future Hall of Famer Antonio Gates. Manhertz is more of the blocking type, so Thomas should be the team's pass-catching tight end immediately with Olsen going down. Thomas is worth a look if you own Olsen or Titans tight end Delanie Walker, who looks to be done for the year.--Keith Hernandez - RotoBaller
Source: ESPN.com - David Newton