In the ending of this 2019 year, linebacker Shaq Thompson is set to become an unrestricted free agent.
However, he will be staying stuck with the Panthers in Carolina if Thompson gets his way.
«That is a place I’ve been for five decades,» Thompson told the Charlotte Observer’s Brendan Marks. «I don’t want to know any other place.»
Together with Carolina having picked up his fifth-year choice, the 2015 NFL Draft’s 25th choice is set to make $9.23 million in 2019.
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To say it’s going to be a critical period for Thompson is a understatement.
As aforementioned, he will be playing in the final year of the contract. In addition, he’ll be coming back from a season-ending excursion to injured reserve with a shoulder injury and he will be transitioning, along with the remainder of the defense, by a 4-3 scheme to some 3-4 in the aftermath of Thomas Davis’ departure.
Together with Davis Thompson should be called upon for more chance and much more reps to show his range and versatility.
The strategy seems to be coming together.
«We’re used to 4-3, but we’re getting adjusted to the 3-4,» he explained. «I enjoy it. It is just knowing where to line up and how things match just a little bit differently with front and all that.»
In 2018, Thompson’s 79 tackles in 11 starts (14 games) tied Davis for second on the Panthers and his 3.5 sacks were third on the group. He has been called on to play in nickel packages and occasionally at safety, so his versatility has come to the forefront.
He has improved Since Thompson’s role using the Panthers has improved.
Thus, as the 2019 kickoff dawns, everything appears to be set up for Thompson convince Carolina to deliver him back and to have an impressive time. It’s just up to him to seize a contract — along with the day.
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