The Houston Roughnecks have finally sent a player to the NFL. DB Kiondre Thomas has signed with the Carolina Panthers, after having a workout with a couple of different teams this week.
Breaking: The Carolina Panthers are signing @XFLRoughnecks DB Kiondre Thomas, per @AaronWilson_NFL.@ItsJustKon was a key playmaker once he joined Houston in week four, totaling 11 TKL, 1 INT, & 2 PBU's.
First Roughneck to sign an NFL contract this offseason. #UFL pic.twitter.com/Wn6XcMTqc0
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) July 26, 2024
Thomas was an interesting story in the UFL this year. He was one of the bigger names that Houston acquired in the offseason, but he was suspended for the first few games. Thomas returned to the lineup in week four, and immediately made an impact – snagging an interception in their one win of the year.
DB Kiondre Thomas had an excellent debut last weekend for the @XFLRoughnecks: 4 TKL, 1 INT, 2 PBU's.
His tackling was key in this win: forcing a turnover on downs, & a late 4Q tackle kept the clock rolling. Expect @ItsJustKon to garner tough assignments tonight vs. BHAM. #UFL pic.twitter.com/c4fRfniAkc
— James Larsen (@JamesLarsenPFN) April 27, 2024
Kiondre ended up playing in six games for the Roughnecks. He posted 14 tackles, an interception, and two PBU’s. He had a 64.6 Defensive Grade via PFF, with a 66.8 Coverage Grade.
The NFL is nothing new for Kiondre. He spent some time with a few teams, including the Browns, Chargers, and Packers. Thomas recorded one tackle with the Chargers in 2021.
Now, he’ll look to make a return to the highest level, with the Carolina Panthers.
Without the national platform that the UFL provided Kiondre with, who knows if this opportunity would have been possible. You can stay up to date with all UFL to NFL signings with our official tracker.
What are your thoughts on Kiondre Thomas signing with the Carolina Panthers? Should other Roughnecks players get an NFL look? Let us know down in the comments below, or join the conversation on Discord!
