Carolina Panthers: 4 players who raised their stock during OTAs

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Sep 18, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers outside linebacker Shaq Green-Thompson (54) looks to the sidelines during the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the 49ers 46-27. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

Shaq Thompson

One of the bigger topics of discussions this offseason has been how Shaq Thompson’s role will expand in this defense. The Panthers’ coaching staff is expected to limit Thomas Davis’ work in 2017, which means Thompson should have more opportunities to make plays on Sundays.

Thompson seems to be starting the new year off on the right foot. One thing that has stood out, according to Bill Voth, is his ability to get down field on passing plays.

"Shepard had a longer pass knocked away by linebacker Shaq Thompson, who’s made multiple plays downfield the past few weeks."

This shouldn’t be a surprise since Thompson was a hybrid safety/linebacker in college. He has excellent athleticism for a linebacker and can neutralize some opposing running backs and tight ends who used to be a mismatch as Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer wrote.

If Thompson continues to play well against the pass, it will not be tough to get him on the field. Instead, it will be tough to take him off.

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