Raiders Bring Back TE Ian Thomas on 1-Year Deal

The 29-year-old tight end returns to Las Vegas after playing 15 games last season.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:11am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-catch, with sharp planes of color and overlapping shapes representing the dynamic action of the play.A cubist interpretation of a Raiders tight end making a crucial catch, reflecting the team's efforts to build depth and continuity at the position.Las Vegas Today

The Las Vegas Raiders are re-signing veteran tight end Ian Thomas to a one-year contract, according to a report from ESPN. Thomas, 29, spent his first seven NFL seasons with the Carolina Panthers before joining the Raiders in 2025 on a $1.52 million deal. He played in 15 games (10 starts) for Las Vegas last year, catching all 13 targets for 114 yards.

Why it matters

The Raiders are looking to bolster their tight end depth behind star Brock Bowers, and bringing back the experienced Thomas provides continuity and a reliable target in the passing game. Thomas has over 100 career receptions and will look to build on his role in the Raiders' offense in 2026.

The details

Thomas signed with the Raiders last offseason after seven seasons with the Carolina Panthers. In his first year in Las Vegas, he played on 36% of the offensive snaps (318) and 26% of special teams snaps (96), catching all 13 passes thrown his way for 114 yards. The Raiders are re-signing him to a one-year deal to keep him in the fold for the upcoming season.

  • Thomas signed with the Raiders in 2025 offseason.
  • Thomas played 15 games (10 starts) for the Raiders in the 2025 season.

The players

Ian Thomas

A 29-year-old tight end who spent his first seven NFL seasons with the Carolina Panthers before joining the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025.

Brock Bowers

The Raiders' two-time Pro Bowl starting tight end, who will continue to be the top option at the position with Thomas providing depth and complementary production.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The Raiders' decision to bring back Ian Thomas on a one-year deal shows their commitment to maintaining continuity and depth at the tight end position, complementing star Brock Bowers. Thomas provides a reliable veteran target who can contribute both as a receiver and blocker in the Raiders' offense.