5 worst contracts on the Carolina Panthers in 2022
By Dean Jones
Shaq Thompson – Carolina Panthers OLB
- $18.17 million in 2022
There was a lot to like about Shaq Thompson’s growth in 2021. The outside linebacker emerged as a commanding force at the second level, providing big plays and tremendous leadership that’s been lacking within this positional group ever since Luke Kuechly announced his shock retirement.
The Washington product deserves all the credit in the world for the way he applied himself. But that does not detract from his concerning contract status over the next two seasons.
Thompson is set to count a whopping $18.17 million against the cap in 2022, which will increase to $19.42 million on the final year of his deal. This presents the Panthers with a real dilemma and it’s a situation they must handle with extreme care.
Perhaps restricting Thompson’s deal is the best possible solution for all parties. They could also look to find a potential trade partner next year or even release him with a cap saving of around $13 million.
Losing Thompson in 2022 doesn’t appear to be an option. Jermaine Carter, Frankie Luvu, and Haason Reddick are out of contract and if they don’t come back, Carolina will be significantly depleted within their linebacker corps.
Thompson’s influence appears to be vital given the options elsewhere. But his contract still makes him seriously overpaid for a player at the position.