Carolina Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson (L) was limited to six games over the past two seasons because of injuries. File Photo by Steve Nesius/UPI | License Photo
The Carolina Panthers will let longtime linebacker Shaq Thompson become a free agent this off-season, the team announced Monday.
“We appreciate Shaq’s leadership and dedication over the past 10 seasons,” Panthers president of football operations/general manager Dan Morgan said. “Always a source of passion and enthusiasm, he was committed to this organization on and off the field, poured into his teammates, and strived to bring out the best in them.” Advertisement
Thompson, 30, joined the Panthers as the No. 25 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. His 752 tackles are the fourth-most in franchise history. A former team captain, he totaled a career-high 135 tackles in 2022 and 462 from 2019 through 2022.
Injuries limited the 10-year veteran to just six games over the past two seasons.
NFL teams must designate franchise or transition players by March 4. The free agent negotiation period starts March 10. Players can start signing March 12.
