Shaq Thompson is 'Likely' Done for the 2023 Season

Early reports weren't promising when Shaq Thompson was carted off on Monday night, and a day later the worst-case scenario has come to fruition.

In his Tuesday afternoon press conference, head coach Frank Reich announced that Shaq Thompson fractured his fibula against the Saints and is "likely" done for the remainder of the season. Reich also confirmed that Thompson had successful surgery to repair the break on Tuesday morning.

It's an unfortunate break for the veteran linebacker. Thompson, 29, was the defensive signal caller on the field for the Carolina defense. His nine-year stint in Carolina is second to only long snapper J.J. Jansen in terms of length. Thompson is known for his closing speed and hard hits, and his presence will be missed by a young Panthers' defense.

Kamu Grugier-Hill replaced Thompson on Monday night and played well in his absence. Carolina re-signed Deion Jones to their practice squad, and it is assumed that he will be called up to fill the void that Thompson's injury will leave.