The Buffalo Bills strengthened their defense on Tuesday, signing veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson to a one-year contract, the team announced.
Thompson, 31, was a first-round pick by the Panthers in 2015 and spent the past decade with the team, appearing in 123 games and starting 112. During his tenure, he tallied 752 tackles, 12 sacks, four fumble recoveries, and three interceptions. However, injuries have recently slowed his career; he played in only six games over the past two seasons and underwent offseason surgery.
Thompson will be present at minicamp but won’t participate as he continues his recovery, head coach Sean McDermott confirmed. McDermott previously served as Thompson’s defensive coordinator in Carolina, and Bills GM Brandon Beane was part of the Panthers’ front office when Thompson was drafted.
This signing brings Buffalo’s offseason roster to 91 players. Normally, the NFL allows 90 players, but the Bills have an extra spot thanks to international player Travis Clayton, who is exempt from the limit due to the league’s International Player Pathway Program.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].