Thomas (calf) did not practice Monday, David Newton of ESPN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Thomas has been sidelined for nearly a month with the injury, and although he was hopeful for a Week 1 return, Newton believes it "seems like a stretch" that the veteran tight end will be able to play Sunday against the Saints. Considering the time Thomas has missed already, he might not be in game shape even if he returns to practice in coming days. With Tommy Tremble (hamstring) also questionable, the Panthers could be turning to rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders and veteran Jordan Matthews to handle all the tight-end snaps Sunday.