5 bold predictions for Carolina Panthers in 2020

4. Shaq Thompson will blossom into a Pro Bowler

Kuechly’s decision to retire leaves the Panthers with a lot of space to fill at linebacker. Thompson is the most talented returner on the roster. No matter what position he ends up playing, look for him to become a legitimate star in 2020.

The odds favor him continuing to play most of his football at the off ball linebacker position next year. Tahir Whitehead should be able to fill the middle adequately. That will leave Thompson with the flexibility to make big plays from the edge.

This will be the season where he finally turns all of his tantalizing athleticism into NFL production. In a strange way, playing next to a superstar like Kuechly was actually detrimental to Thompson’s development. He simply took away too many opportunities away.

The big key for Thompson will be to find a way to get to the quarterback more often. Look for him to finish this season with seven or eight sacks. That, combined with some quality tackling numbers and coverage stats should be enough to get him a Pro Bowl invitation.