Ian Thomas

Week 17 at New Orleans Saints

Ian Thomas had a decent game against the Falcons last week, catching four passes for 48 yards and a touchdown. He’s had at least four targets in each of his past four games since taking over as the starter following another injury to Greg Olsen. While he hasn’t lit the world on fire, the Panthers are getting a look at his long-term potential as a starter with the future of Olsen in limbo.

This week, Thomas is risky, but has some streaming upside. With a young quarterback behind center, it’s possible he’ll lean on his tight end as a check down option. The Saints have allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to opposing tight ends this year, but they aren’t really playing for anything this week. Thomas is risky, but if you need a streamer, he has enough upside to consider him in deep leagues.

Week 15 vs. New Orleans Saints

Ian Thomas had a nice game last week against the Browns, catching nine passes for 77 yards and leading the team with 11 targets. Thomas should be added in all dynasty league formats with Greg Olsen’s future up in the air, and he’s a decent streaming option in deep, redraft leagues.

This week, Thomas will face a Saints defense that has actually allowed the fourth-least fantasy points per game to the tight end position this season. Thomas is risky as a rookie in a tough matchup, but in what could be a shootout, an increase in targets might make Thomas worth gambling on as a streaming option.

Week 6 at Washington Redskins

Ian Thomas caught three passes for 38 yards against the Giants last week. There are rumors that Greg Olsen may suit up against Washington this week. Even if he doesn’t, Thomas has limited fantasy value. He’s yet to make much of an impact replacing Olsen in the starting lineup. While he still has value in dynasty league formats as the possible heir-apparent to Olsen, it’s clear he’s not yet ready to make a fantasy impact. Leave him on waivers.