Panthers to move on from Shaq Thompson

The Carolina Panthers have informed linebacker Shaq Thompson that the franchise is moving in another direction, allowing the veteran to enter free agency, the team announced Monday.

"We appreciate Shaq's leadership and dedication over the past 10 seasons," general manager Dan Morgan said in a statement. "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. We wish Shaq the best as he moves forward with his career."

Thompson has been a longtime member of the Panthers and served as one of the team captains.

However, he's struggled to stay on the field in recent seasons, playing only four games last season and two in 2023.

The 30-year-old linebacker started 112 contests for the franchise, recording 752 tackles, 12 sacks, and three interceptions. His best campaign came in 2022 when he notched a career-high 135 tackles.