54 Shaq Green-Thompson OLB

Thompson (shoulder) finished the 2018 regular season with a career-high 79 tackles (50 solo) and 3.5 sacks in 14 games played.

Thompson saw his role expanded with Thomas Davis suspended for Carolina's first four games. The former first-rounder capitalized on that opportunity, setting new personal bests in tackles and sacks while also forcing a fumble. That came despite Thompson being shut down for the Panthers' final two games due to a shoulder issue. With Davis, who still tied Thompson to finish second on the team in tackles, already known to not be returning next season, Thompson will look to build on his totals while working toward a new contract.

Thompson (shoulder) was placed on injured reserve Thursday, Max Henson of the Panthers' official site reports.

Thompson played through an undisclosed shoulder injury during Monday's loss to the Saints, and now lands on season-ending injured reserve. With the Panthers out of playoff contention, the team decided not to risk further injury to the former 2015 first-round pick. Expect Andre Smith and Jermaine Carter to benefit from increased snaps going forward.

Thompson (shoulder) did not practice Wednesday, Steve Reed of the Associated Press reports.

Thompson appears to have sustained a shoulder injury during Monday's loss to the Saints, putting his Week 16 status in question. If the former 2015 first-round pick were unable to suit up against the Falcons on Sunday, Jermaine Carter would benefit from increased defensive snaps.

Thompson finished with seven tackles (five solo), a sack and a fumble forced in Sunday's 30-27 loss to the Seahawks.

Thompson was plenty busy, trailing only Luke Kuechly for Carolina's lead in tackles. In doing so, the fourth-year pro set a new career high with 67 stops on the season, and his three sacks now mark another personal best.

Thompson (shoulder) was a listed as a full participant on Thursday's injury report, Joseph Person of The Athletic reports.

Thompson is on pace to play in Sunday's tilt against the Seahawks after failing to practice Wednesday, though Jermaine Carter and David Mayo could see increased roles at outside linebacker if Thompson were to suffer a setback.