4 winners and 4 losers from the Carolina Panthers 2021 season
By Jason Huber
Shaq Thompson – Carolina Panthers OLB
Carolina Panthers fans have been waiting for a breakout season from Shaq Thompson since he was drafted in 2014. Last year, after getting a big contract extension, the outside linebacker proved just how good he was.
This year, he got even better, putting up big defensive numbers once again. This all came despite missing three games.
Thompson had a career-high two interceptions, and totaled104 tackles, two sacks, nine tackles for loss, six quarterback hits, five passes defended, two interceptions, and six pressures. The Washington product isn’t much of a talker, so his play was very underrated, but he played up to his contract.
The strong play from Thompson also helps Panthers fans at least feel some kind of hope since he is one of the only players remaining from the 2015 Super Bowl team. While he wasn’t an impact player then, to know Carolina has another very good linebacker on their roster is a good feeling after being just two years removed from losing Luke Kuechly to a shock retirement.
It’s unsure if Thompson is frustrated with the state of the team. But with how young the defense is, his presence is much-needed.