4 Panthers players who could benefit from trade deadline inactivity
By Dean Jones
Shaq Thompson – Carolina Panthers LB
When the Carolina Panthers started ditching big contracts in the immediate aftermath of Matt Rhule’s removal, one couldn’t help but think Shaq Thompson would also be traded at some stage before the deadline.
The linebacker is counting a significant amount against the salary cap and this goes up even more in the final year of his deal in 2023. So those in power probably examined the pros and cons carefully before keeping him around.
Thompson is one of the team’s primary leaders and one of two remaining from Carolina’s exceptional run to the Super Bowl in 2015. However, the temptation to get something in return and free up resources might be contemplated at the end of the season depending on how a new head coach sees the situation.
The former Washington standout comes with a cap number of $24.46 million after a series of contract restructures. Trading Thompson before June 1 saves $13.18 million, so although the second-level defender will see out the current campaign, what comes after that is less certain.
As one of the elder statesmen in Carolina, Thompson isn’t considered part of the team’s exciting young core. This is another thing that could lead the Panthers to cut ties next spring if a willing suitor comes forward.