Panthers will not re-sign longtime linebacker Shaq Thompson: Panthers will not re-sign longtime linebacker Shaq Thompson : The Carolina Panthers have made the decision to move on from linebacker Shaq Thompson, a key figure in the team’s defense for nearly a decade. With Thompson set to become an unrestricted free agent, the Panthers have informed him that they will not be re-signing him for the upcoming season.
Thompson, 30, is now looking ahead to new opportunities in free agency. Throughout his career with Carolina, he has been more than just a player — he’s been a symbol of commitment and leadership. Over the years, his dedication to the team and his drive to constantly improve have made him a standout, but injuries in the past couple of seasons have limited his impact on the field.
Selected as the Panthers’ first-round pick in 2014, Thompson quickly became a key player, with a reputation for consistency. He ranks fourth in team history with 752 career tackles, trailing only legends Thomas Davis, Luke Kuechly, and Mike Minter. He also played in the Super Bowl as a rookie in 2015 and was named a team captain five times — a testament to his leadership and influence within the locker room.
But injuries have taken a toll. After posting a career-high 135 tackles in 2022, Thompson’s 2023 season was cut short by a broken ankle in Week 2. He was hoping to bounce back, but another setback occurred early in 2024 when he tore his Achilles tendon in Week 4, ending his season once again. Despite these challenges, Thompson’s resilience and determination remain undeniable.
General Manager Dan Morgan expressed gratitude for Thompson’s contribution over the past 10 years. “Shaq has been a tremendous leader for us, both on and off the field. His energy, enthusiasm, and passion for the game have inspired not only his teammates but the entire organization. We thank him for his service and wish him nothing but success as he moves forward in his career.”
It’s hard to ignore how players like Thompson can be the backbone of a team’s culture, and even when faced with obstacles, they keep striving for excellence. His story can inspire those of us in various professions — resilience in the face of adversity, and leadership even during tough times, can make all the difference.
As Thompson transitions into free agency, he is sure to seek a fresh start with a new team, determined to make an impact once again. Over his 10 years with the Panthers, he appeared in 123 games, and his presence on the field has undoubtedly left an imprint on the team and its fanbase.
In a world that demands productivity and results, Shaq’s journey highlights the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and leadership — qualities that go beyond stats and tackles and contribute to long-term success. As he seeks his next chapter, one can only imagine the new opportunities that await.