Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson is entering his seventh year in the NFL.
Every year brings unique challenges, so to stay on stop professional athletes have to evolve their game and their bodies as-needed. One change for Thompson this coming season will be carrying a bit more weight. Defensive coordinator Phil Snow told reporters today that Thompson added about 10 pounds this offseason, bringing him up to the 235-237 range.
Snow says Shaq Thompson added about 10 pounds in offseason, up to 235-237.
— Joe Person (@josephperson) June 9, 2021
It’s a safe bet that extra weight is more muscle than Bojangles.
Either way, in the absence of future Hall of Famer Luke Kuechly Thompson has become Carolina’s most consistent defender.
While Jeremy Chinn led the team in tackles last season, Thompson was close behind and only missed eight attempts (6.6%). His coverage is still solid as well, as he allowed one touchdown and a 90.7 passer rating. Thompson didn’t record any sacks and only posted two QB hits all year though, despite 55 blitz attempts.
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