Report: Shaq Thompson's 5th-Year Contract Option Will Be Picked Up by Panthers

The Carolina Panthers reportedly plan to exercise the fifth-year option in linebacker Shaq Thompson's contract, according to Joseph Person of the Charlotte Observer.

Doing so would keep Thompson on the roster through at least the 2019 season.

In 2019, Thompson is set to make a salary that is determined by the average salary of the third through 25th highest-paid linebackers in the NFL, per Person.

The 2015 first-round pick has been a key part of the Panthers defense over the past three seasons, starting 36 of his 42 games played since entering the league.

Carolina's defense has been among the best in the league during this stretch, ranking in the top 10 in yards allowed twice out of the last three years

Last season, Thompson finished with a career-high 57 tackles and 2.0 sacks.

Thompson hasn't gotten the publicity of fellow Panthers linebackers Luke Kuechly or Thomas Davis, but he makes a big impact thanks to his versatility on the field. He can play against the run or the pass, blitz into the backfield or drop into coverage.

After playing all over the field in college, including at running back, the Panthers have found a way to use him successfully in the NFL. Although injuries have been a problem with two missed games each season, he has been plenty effective when on the field.

According to Bleacher Report's NFL1000, he was the No. 11 4-3 outside linebacker in football last season out of 46 qualified players.

With Davis announcing his decision to retire after the 2018 season, picking up Thompson's option seems like a no-brainer to keep the strength of the team as steady as possible going forward. 

The 23-year-old now has at least two more seasons before hitting free agency, giving the team plenty of time before needing to work out a new long-term deal for the talented player.