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Panthers defense/special teams: Regular season report card

By Brandon Scott

CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 24: Luke Kuechly #59 talks to his Carolina Panthers teammates against the New Orleans Saints during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - SEPTEMBER 24: Luke Kuechly #59 talks to his Carolina Panthers teammates against the New Orleans Saints during their game at Bank of America Stadium on September 24, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Carolina Panthers v Atlanta Falcons
ATLANTA, GA – DECEMBER 31: Thomas Davis #58 and Luke Kuechly #59 of the Carolina Panthers tackle Devonta Freeman #24 of the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /

Linebacker: 86, B

A at 49ers, A vs. Bills, B- vs. Saints, B at Patriots
C+ at Lions, C- vs. Eagles, A at Bears, A at Bucs
A- vs. Falcons, B vs. Dolphins, B at Jets, C- at Saints
B+ vs. Vikings, B vs. Packers, B- vs. Buccaneers, B at Falcons

Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis have been cornerstones of the Panthers defense for years but this season saw the emergence of Shaq Thompson in a more productive role. Given increased responsibility under Wilks, Thompson adds to the overall dynamic of an extremely impressive group.

Despite each missing some amount of time for various injuries and suspension, the linebacker group enjoyed solid production all year long. Backups David Mayo and Ben Jacobs filled in at times in addition to those in the defensive backfield replacing Thompson’s big nickel role that Wilks employs.

As Davis nears retirement, don’t be surprised to see interim general manager Marty Hurney target another young linebacker to join this group next season.

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