After nearly 10 seasons with the Carolina Panthers, Shaq Thompson’s time with the team has come to an end. The Panthers have decided to move in a different direction and informed Thompson that they would not be retaining him for an 11th season.
The veteran linebacker is now set to enter free agency. Panthers’ president of football operations and general manager, Dan Morgan, acknowledged Thompson’s leadership and dedication during his time with the team, expressing appreciation for his passion and enthusiasm both on and off the field.
Thompson’s Journey with Panthers from Drafted Rookie to Injured Veteran Amid Rebuilding
Thompson’s journey with the Panthers began when they selected him as the 25th overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. The rookie linebacker joined a roster that featured Panthers legends like Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis. His entry into the NFL was marked by an impressive 15-1 season, which saw the team make it to Super Bowl 50, although they ultimately lost to the Denver Broncos. This strong debut represented the peak of the Panthers’ performance during the decade that followed.
Shaq Thompson (NFL)While Thompson’s early years were filled with promise, the Panthers’ success has since waned. Over the past decade, the team has only made one playoff appearance (2017), experienced multiple coaching changes, and struggled with inconsistent performances.
The Panthers are currently undergoing a rebuilding phase and are looking toward a brighter future. Unfortunately, Thompson won’t be around to see this potential turnaround, as injuries have limited his impact over the last two seasons, making just six appearances in total.
Thompson’s Legacy with Panthers as a Leader and Key Contributor to the Franchise
Despite never earning postseason honors, Thompson left a lasting mark on the Panthers’ franchise. Over the course of his 10 seasons, he accumulated 752 tackles, placing him fourth in team history. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Thompson was a key leader in the locker room, providing stability and guidance through some of the more challenging periods in the franchise’s history. His steady presence and leadership were valued highly by the organization, especially during lean years.
As Thompson approaches his 31st birthday, he will enter free agency with the hope of continuing his career elsewhere. With his past injuries behind him, Thompson could follow a career path similar to that of former teammate Deion Jones, another linebacker who found success later in his career. The upcoming offseason promises to be an intriguing one for free-agent linebackers, with Thompson among the notable names in the market. His next steps will be determined once the new league year begins on March 12, 2025.
