Panthers, Shaq Thompson make major offseason move

Free agency is set to open in the NFL over the coming weeks. Ahead of the start of free agency, the Carolina Panthers have restructured the contract of linebacker Shaq Thompson.

The Panthers tweeted the news on Monday afternoon. Carolina did not release the specific details of Thompson’s restructured contract, but have still created some more salary cap room with the move.

“The Panthers continued to work with the numbers Monday, restructuring another deal for a veteran to create some more salary cap flexibility,” the team said. “The team restructured the contract of linebacker Shaq Thompson, clearing some more space under the cap for next year.”

Thompson just wrapped up his seventh season in the NFL, all of which have been spent with the Panthers. This past season, Thompson enjoyed one of his best seasons of his career, totaling 104 tackles, nine tackles for loss, six quarterback hits, two sacks, five passes defended, and two interceptions in 14 games.

In his NFL career, Thompson has compiled 574 tackles, 44 tackles for loss, 28 quarterback hits, 11.5 sacks, three fumble recoveries, four forced fumbles, 22 passes defended, and three interceptions.

In April of 2018, the Panthers exercised the fifth-year option of Thompson’s rookie contract, keeping him under contract through 2019. Then, in December of 2019, Thompson agreed to a four-year, $54.2 million contract extension, keeping him under contract through the 2023 season.

Prior to his restructured deal, Thompson was set to count for over $8 million against the cap, with cap hits north of $18 million in the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

A look at the Panthers pending free agents after restructuring Thompson

In addition to Thompson, Carolina also restructured the contract of veteran offensive lineman Taylor Moton. The Panthers have already re-signed Frankie Luvu, Ian Thomas, and JJ Jansen. Now, the Panthers have a few players set to hit the open market, unless a deal is reached.

Notably, cornerbacks Stephon Gilmore and Donte Jackson are pending free agents. But the most important question facing the Panthers is at quarterback.

Carolina saw lackluster play at quarterback this past season, and the team is likely looking for an upgrade this offseason. Restructuring Thompson likely allows the Panthers a little more room to maneuver for a potential signal caller, whether that comes through the draft, free agency, or through a trade.