North Charlotte Today

The Panthers are facing a future without one of their key defensive players, Shaq Thompson, who suffered a season-ending Achilles tear during Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Head coach Dave Canales expressed his sympathy for Thompson, stating, "I'm just sick for Shaq. A guy that really just cares so much, plays with so much passion, a vocal leader."

Thompson has been a five-time captain for the Panthers and led the defense in tackles this season with 35 total. Despite the uncertainty surrounding his injury and future, running back Miles Sanders remains optimistic about Thompson's return: "The Shaq I know is not going to; he's not going to back down... So, he's not going out like that."

In addition to Thompson's injury, middle linebacker Josey Jewell also suffered injuries—a groin and hamstring—during the same game. Canales confirmed Jewell would be out for at least a couple of weeks.

There is some positive news regarding other injured players. The team plans to open the practice window this week for corner Dane Jackson, defensive lineman Jaden Crumedy, and tight end Ian Thomas. This allows them three weeks to practice before potentially being activated.

However, running back Jonathon Brooks and outside linebacker D.J. Wonnum are still in recovery stages. "They got some hurdles that they got to jump before they get back out there on the practice field," Canales explained.

Thompson's absence marks another significant loss for the Panthers' leadership after Derrick Brown's season-ending injury earlier in the year. Sam Franklin Jr., another captain, started the season on injured reserve.

"To have the support of veteran guys like this... people that I can ask to lead a charge," Canales said about Thompson’s leadership qualities.

Xavier Woods highlighted how the team is adapting: "We're just going to lean on each other... it's kind of like next man up." On offense, Miles Sanders noted that he and Chuba Hubbard take pride in setting the tone during practices.

Rookie linebacker Trevin Wallace will step into Thompson’s role after showing promise in preseason games and recent matches. Canales praised Wallace as a "big, fast, physical player" who loves football.

Second-year linebacker Claudin Cherelus will temporarily replace Jewell’s snaps alongside Wallace.

Xavier Woods had mixed performances against the Bengals; he missed a tackle leading to Ja'Marr Chase scoring but later intercepted Joe Burrow's pass meant for Chase. Reflecting on his missed tackle, Woods stated he was trying to avoid penalties: "My intention this year was to not get a flag." He described his interception play as catching Burrow off-guard when Chase changed direction unexpectedly.

Despite these challenges, Canales remains focused on maintaining team spirit and performance as they adjust without key players like Thompson and Jewell.