Shaq Thompson Providing Panthers, ‘People What They Want’

Absorbing probing questions following a mandatory minicamp practice on June 11, Carolina Panthers inside linebacker Shaq Thompson laughed about his upbeat attitude. The 10-year veteran hasn’t always been as media-friendly. So why the change? “Just trying to give the people what they want,” Thompson said with a wide grin.

“I want to leave y’all with a good impression, whether I’m here or not.” Entering the final season of his contract and healed from a broken fibula, Thompson understands the often-harsh business side of the NFL. Believing he has “five (more seasons) in me,” Thompson admitted to his primary professional desire.

“I would love to retire here, you know, but that’s in my fate,” he said. “When I say that, I control what I control. I control myself on that field.

If I play well, I’ll stay here. If I’m not, I’m not, you know what I mean.” Thompson pinpointed one aspect he can help the defense improve next season: Creating turnovers.

@Panthers linebackers worked recovering fumbles during mandatory minicamp. Entering the start of training camp July 24, creating turnovers will continue to empathized. The defense created an @NFL low 11 last season .

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twitter.com/XQS1WQgBtv — Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) July 10, 2024 Shaq Thompson Enters Year 10 More Jovial Injured during the first quarter of the Week 2 matchup against the New Orleans Saints last season, Thompson watched the Panthers slog their way to a league-worst 2-15 campaign..