Chargers released LB Thomas Davis and DT Brandon MeBane.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2020
The Chargers have released former Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis along with defensive tackle Brandon Mebane. Davis of course played for Carolina for 14 years before getting released in 2019. He signed a now-defunct two-year deal with Los Angeles worth a reported $10.5 million.
The Panthers do happen to need more help at linebacker after the retirement of Luke Kuechly. While Davis is far past his prime and obviously won’t be in the team’s long term plans, he does make sense as a bridge option. Signing Davis to a cheap, one-year deal to fill the void and help coach up younger linebackers like Jermaine Carter Jr. and Andre Smith isn’t a terrible idea.
Then again, Carolina should be building for the future as much as possible right now. That roster spot is probably better served going to a younger player who can be a factor in 2021 and beyond.
There’s no word yet on what Davis plans to do and it wouldn’t come as a surprise if he wants to continue playing. However, if there is interest, signing him to a one-day contract so he can retire as a Panther is probably the best move.
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