The Carolina Panthers are making significant changes to their roster as they part ways with longtime linebacker Shaq Thompson, who is set to become a free agent. The team informed Thompson, the first-round draft pick from 2015, of their decision to not re-sign him, marking the end of his decade-long tenure with the organization.
Thompson, who is 30 years old, has faced considerable challenges with injuries over the past two seasons. He has played just six games during this time due to significant injuries, including a broken fibula sustained early last season and most recently, a torn Achilles tendon.
Reflecting on Thompson's contributions, Panthers General Manager Dan Morgan expressed the team's gratitude. “We appreciate Shaq’s leadership and dedication over the past 10 seasons,” he stated. “Always a source of passion and enthusiasm, he was committed to this organization on and off the field, poured insubordinate enthusiasm for his teammates, and strived to bring out the best in them. We wish Shaq the best as he moves forward with his career.”
Thompson's career with the Panthers has been marked by notable achievements, including being named team captain five times. His most productive season came in 2022, where he recorded 135 tackles, demonstrating his potential as one of the most reliable players on the roster. Over his career, Thompson amassed 752 combined tackles, which places him fourth on the Panthers' all-time tackle list, trailing only team legends Thomas Davis, Luke Kuechly, and Mike Minter.
Thompson entered the NFL under bright prospects, playing alongside esteemed linebackers Davis and Kuechly, helping the Panthers to Super Bowl 50 as a rookie. This experience was pivotal for him as he joined the league, learning not only through their example but also providing steadfast leadership during the franchise’s ups and downs.
Following his announcement, Thompson expressed hope for continuing his career, stating he would love to finish with the Panthers. “I would love to end my career here and be one of the guys in history to play with one team,” he said previously, voicing his desire for stability even as injuries marred his recent seasons.
Despite his aspirations to stay, the Panthers are moving forward after several seasons of underwhelming performance. The team has undergone restructuring, allowing newcomers such as Trevin Wallace, drafted last year, to make their mark. Carolina's defense has struggled recently, and Thompson’s release is part of broader efforts to revamp the squad.
Thompson’s exit will free up approximately $3.3 million in cap space, which the franchise hopes to allocate toward rebuilding their defense. His departure is symbolic not only of the Panthers’ shift toward younger talent but also the conclusion of an era defined by former stars, as Thompson was one of the last direct links to players like Kuechly and Davis.
While Thompson may not have received postseason honors, his impact on and off the field wasn't lost on his teams or fans. His leadership qualities and commitment have been emphasized by teammates and coaches. This offseason, Thompson will undoubtedly attract interest from other teams, seeking to add his wealth of experience and skill.
Looking forward, Thompson's next steps remain uncertain as he transitions to free agency. The Panthers will continue working on their roster adjustments, aiming to improve after seasons plagued by disappointments.
Thompson's legacy within the organization is notable, and many within the fan base will fondly recall his contributions and leadership over his memorable ten-year span with the team. Football remains unpredictable, and as Thompson prepares for this new chapter, his resilience and determination might yet lead him to success with another franchise.
His story serves as both inspiration and reflection on the challenges athletes face when injuries hinder their career trajectories. Despite the uncertainties, Thompson remains focused on recovery and continuing his professional career somewhere else once free agency opens.
Overall, Thompson's departure signals change for the franchise, and as they navigate rebuilding, the Panthers hope for renewed success and stability moving forward.