UNDATED (AP) — The Carolina Panthers have announced they’ve agreed to a three-year contract with unrestricted free agent tight end Ian Thomas. The deal is worth $16.95 million and includes $8 million in guaranteed money, according to a person who spoke to The Associated Press.
Thomas is considered a strong blocking tight end and had 18 receptions for 188 yards last season. His most productive year as a receiver came as a rookie in 2018 when he caught 36 passes for 333 yards and two touchdowns.
In other NFL news:
— Former Auburn and San Diego Chargers running back Lionel James has died at 59 after a lengthy illness. James played five seasons with the NFL’s Chargers after being drafted in the fifth round in 1984. He set an NFL record with 2,535 all-purpose yards in 1985 after leading the Chargers in rushing, receiving and kickoff and punt return yardage.
— Virginia lawmakers are advancing a measure intended to lure the Washington Commanders to the state. The lawmakers are prepared to allow the team to forgo what could be $1 billion or more in future tax payments to help finance a potential new football stadium. The Commanders are tied to a lease for Maryland’s FedEx Field through 2027.
