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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Anthony Rizzuti

Panthers LB Shaq Thompson to fans who want him cut: ‘Keep God in your life’

The NFL, first and foremost, is a business—and you don’t have to tell Carolina Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson that twice.

On Monday, the veteran defender tweeted with a number of fans—taking inquiries on seemingly anything from new head coach Frank Reich, to a possible switch to a 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, even to his drink of choice. But tequila aside—Thompson cleared up his whereabouts during the day of Reich’s introductory press conference, while giving him a strong vote of confidence.

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As a team leader and captain, Thompson was one of the more vocal supporters of former interim head coach Steve Wilks—who did not, of course, end up getting the permanent job. He does, though, see the potential with Reich now heading the ship.

The thing is—will Thompson be around for the maiden voyage?

Even coming off his best two pro seasons, the eight-year backer could be a cap casualty for Carolina this spring. A cut of Thompson, whose cap hit for 2023 sits at $24.5 million, would free up a little over $13 million in space.

Thompson’s future has been in question for a few months now, and he closed up his Twitter session with a message for those who hope he gets the axe . . .

Thompson, who turns 29 in April, will be entering the final campaign of his four-year, $54.4 million deal.

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