Carolina Panthers defense: Mid-year performance analysis

CHARLOTTE, NC - NOVEMBER 04: Luke Kuechly #59 and teammate Donte Jackson #26 of the Carolina Panthers react against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second quarter during their game at Bank of America Stadium on November 4, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 28: Shaq Green-Thompson #54 and Thomas Davis #58 of the Carolina Panthers tackle Alex Collins #34 of the Baltimore Ravens during their game at Bank of America Stadium on October 28, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Linebacker: 85, B

A- vs. Cowboys, C- at Falcons, B vs. Bengals, B- vs. Giants
B at Redskins, B- at Eagles, A vs. Ravens, B vs. Buccaneers

The strength of the Carolina defense, this unit has improved their overall performance since the return of Thomas Davis. Suspended for the first four games of the season, Davis returned against Washington and despite the loss, his unit has earned higher marks over the past four weeks.

Luke Kuechly is the best linebacker in the league and week after week proves why opposing offenses hate matching up with the quarterback of the Panthers defense. His ability to impact football games through shear alignment and adjustment of the defensive front is uncanny.

Shaq Thompson continues to increase his role and even led the team in tackles one week, a rare occurrence playing alongside Kuechly, but a positive sign for his overall development.

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