5 Panthers players whose stock soared at 2022 mandatory minicamp

Shaq Thompson – Carolina Panthers OLB

Shaq Thompson might not have participated in practice throughout the Carolina Panthers mandatory minicamp. But there was plenty to suggest his stock and overall standing within the organization is growing considerably.

Head coach Matt Rhule has taken a personal approach with his players this offseason. The former Baylor man is also keen to lean on the team’s veterans a lot during a crucial third season in the role.

Thompson is one of the longest-serving players and was even around during the team’s memorable run to the Super Bowl in 2015. This knowledge is something Rhule wants to take advantage of in the hope it can provide the spark needed when competitive games begin.

The Washington product was vocal in a mini-coaching capacity from the sidelines, doing whatever he felt was necessary to get some of the younger guys up to speed quicker than anticipated.

If Thompson can evolve further into a prominent leadership role and keep performing on the field, then there is a high chance Carolina keeps him around on the final year of his deal or extends the outside linebacker next spring.

After so much instability at the second level since the great Luke Kuechly retired, this continuity will be welcome, to put it mildly.