Carolina Panthers: What to expect from Thomas Davis return
Carolina Panthers Thomas Davis returns from a four game suspension on Sunday.
News of Carolina Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis being suspended this offseason was met with shock and surprise from many fans. Davis has been the epitome of what the Panthers want from their personnel both on and off the field. He’s been recognized as a Walter Payton Award winner, served as team captain, and hosted numerous charity events in Charlotte and the surrounding area.
In a career spanning over a decade, Davis has never been suspended for any activity pertaining to substance abuse or performance-enhancing drugs. However, a failed drug test led to an NFL issued four-game suspension for Davis to start this season and as Carolina had an early season bye, he has been absent from the team facility for five total weeks.
Originally, Davis had plans to watch the games from inside Bank of America Stadium as a fan, wanting to be present and show support for his teammates, but the NFL cancelled his plans. Davis wasn’t allowed any contact with team officials during the suspension but returned this week and is active for Sunday at Washington.
During his time away from the team Davis also dealt with a personal issue as his father passed away last Saturday. He announced the news via Instagram saying the past four weeks had been the toughest of his life – without football and losing a parent.
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Able to resume practicing this week, Davis will play against Washington but what can fans expect in his return. The star linebacker was able to participate in preseason meaning he has played this year but not yet during the regular season.
Fellow linebacker Shaq Thompson has played great in his absence and now can resume his outside and big nickel roles when called upon. However, it may not be often in Davis’ first game back.
The Panthers are likely to limit Davis’ number of defensive snaps, allowing him to slowly work his way back into the lineup. There will be times when all three – Davis, Thompson and Luke Kuechly are on the field at the same time but don’t be surprised to also see Davis on the sidelines some too.
He has to be ready for game action and has already questioned an early announcement that 2018 would be his final season. A lot likely depends on how this year ends but if Davis isn’t ready to retire then Carolina should have him back.
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The good news is Thompson has proven he is ready when Davis does decide that his career is finished, but right now expect to see an energetic and excited No. 58 for the Panthers when they kick off on Sunday.