Veteran free agent linebacker Shaq Thompson wants to end his career with the Carolina Panthers this upcoming offseason. According to multiple sources, the former Washington product realizes he doesn’t have much life in his tank as he expresses his desire to stay in Carolina. However, Thompson understands it will be up to the organization whether or not they sign him back on the roster since the Panthers are expecting to face salary cap issues. Carolina is heading into the offseason in danger of losing several key free agents, including Jadeveon Clowney because of money where they have a little over $32 million.
Originally selected in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft, Thompson has been a staple for the Panthers’ defense but has been suffering from several injuries and is hoping to revitalize his career back in the league. After recording 12 sacks, 26 pass deflections, three interceptions and 752 total tackles, the veteran probably won’t have much to give for a roster but he could easily revive his career with the right team. Meanwhile, the Carolina Panthers drafted rookie Trevin Wallace who’s been outperforming Thompson. However, it’s easier for the Panthers to move on and continue building a new regime under head coach Dave Canales.
As of this posting, the Panthers have not said whether or not they will bring him back but it’s wise to let him explore the free-agent market. Thompson won’t be getting a major deal anymore in the league but a one-year basis at most to see what he has left.
Veteran Free Agent Shaq Thompson Wants to End Career With Panthers – Ravens, Chargers Could Change His Mind
More Veteran Experience
The Baltimore Ravens find themselves still alive in the postseason, while they established a young group in their pass-rushing unit elevating Odafe Oweh and David Ojabo. However, they lost Jadeveon Clowney and Geno Stone, two cornerstone players who were efficient in both the pass and rush defense but with no choice, the Ravens couldn’t retain them. Oweh has been the most reliable while Ojabo is still struggling to find a role in the Baltimore defense. Balance is what might stop this defensive front from helping the Ravens deliver a Super Bowl for quarterback Lamar Jackson.
The offense has been exploding all 2024 campaign with the free agent signee Derrick Henry but the defense has yet to replicate that consistently. While the secondary could use some work, they may have to settle for Shaq Thompson. He should be a clear answer alongside Roquan Smith and Kyle Van Noy to help stop the run in situational moments. No one should expect him to be full-time, but rather a worthy long-term investment and difference-maker in next season’s playoffs.
Possible Mack/Bosa Retirement
As most have said before, head coach Jim Harbaugh loves to win football games with hard-nosed tackling. The defense was exposed in their loss against the Texans despite them being explosive all regular season. The postseason is a different ball game and since they have several bright spots, the team should be back in the playoffs next season with more of an advantage since they have enough salary cap to bring in potential veteran free agents to improve the roster. However, they might have to embrace losing Khalil Mack who is on the brink of retirement.
The Chargers may receive more bad news regarding their linebacker unit since Joey Bosa has been battered with injuries. He’s been teasing this entire 2024 campaign he might not have much to give later on down the road. Despite that, while the Chargers should look for offensive playmakers to help Justin Herbert, they have to be active to fill an immediate hole and Thompson could be emergency depth.
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