From the University of Washington, Shaq Thompson was drafted in the first round (25th overall) of the 2015 NFL Draft.  Thompson arrived in Charlotte as a hyper-versatile, hybrid linebacker. Spending ten seasons in Western North Carolina, Thompson evolved into the heart and soul of Carolina’s defense, serving as a five-time team captain and one of the most productive tacklers in franchise history.

Thompson added a safety-like range and linebacker toughness to Carolina's defense. He initially excelled in the "Big Nickel" role alongside stars Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis, showcasing rare fluid coverage that allowed him to mirror tight ends downfield. Meanwhile, he read plays well enough to shoot gaps in the run game. His quick closing speed and decisive tackling made him a dependable presence across the field.

Thompson established himself as a full-time starting linebacker during his 2015 rookie campaign as Carolina reached Super Bowl 50. After learning from Kuechly and Davis, Thompson took over as the primary defensive signal-caller in 2019. He immediately answered with his first 100-tackle season, recording 107 combined tackles and 3.0 sacks.

He extended that streak into a decade-defining run of consistency, posting 113 tackles in 2020, 97 tackles in 2021, and a career-best 123 tackles in 2022. Thompson's active playmaking and leadership held the defense together through multiple roster overhauls and coaching changes.

Injury misfortunes hindered the closing chapters of Thompson's tenure in Carolina. He suffered a fractured fibula in Week 2 of the 2023 season, limiting him to just two games. He returned as a captain in 2024, recording 34 tackles across four games before a torn Achilles tendon ended his campaign prematurely.

The Panthers mutually parted ways with the veteran linebacker as they transitioned to a younger core. He subsequently joined the Buffalo Bills for the 2025 campaign, leaving Carolina as the fourth all-time leading tackler in Panthers franchise history behind only Kuechly, Davis, and Mike Minter.  With Carolina, Thompson amassed 119 regular-season games (108 starts), recording 743 combined tackles, 12.0 sacks, 3 interceptions, and 4 forced fumbles.