The Buffalo Bills’ linebacker room is facing uncertainty, and one of their recent veteran signings, Shaq Thompson, might not even make it to the regular season, according to a bold prediction by analyst Sal Maiorana of the Democrat & Chronicle. Despite Thompson’s experience and past success, Maiorana believes the 31-year-old linebacker is a longshot to secure a spot on the Bills’ 53-man roster.
A Crowded Linebacker Competition
The Bills have a solid trio of linebackers locked in: Matt Milano, Terrell Bernard, and Dorian Williams. This leaves, at most, one or two roster spots up for grabs, and Thompson faces stiff competition from younger players like Joe Andreessen and Edefuan Olofoshio. Maiorana predicts the Bills will favor this five-man group, leaving Thompson on the outside looking in unless injuries open the door.
Thompson, a former standout with the Carolina Panthers, was signed in the late spring to bolster Buffalo’s linebacker depth. His familiarity with head coach Sean McDermott from their time together in Carolina seemed like a promising fit. However, Thompson’s recent injury history—playing just six games over the past two seasons—raises concerns about his durability and effectiveness.
Thompson’s Uphill Battle
To make the roster, Thompson must prove he still has gas in the tank. Once a reliable starter in Carolina, his ability to stay healthy and perform at a high level will be critical. Additionally, special teams contributions are often a deciding factor for players vying for the final roster spots. While Thompson has logged 955 special teams snaps in his career, he hasn’t been a regular in that role recently, which could hurt his chances.
The Bills’ linebacker depth chart isn’t without its own question marks. Milano has battled injuries in recent years, Bernard is coming off a subpar season, and Williams remains relatively unproven. Thompson’s experience as a starter could be a valuable asset in a reserve role, giving him a slight edge over less seasoned competitors. However, he’ll need to demonstrate both health and versatility in training camp to sway the coaching staff.
Low Risk, High Reward Signing
The good news for Buffalo is that Thompson’s one-year, $1.255 million contract carries no financial penalty if he’s cut, according to Over The Cap. This low-risk signing allows the Bills to take a chance on the veteran without long-term consequences. If Thompson fails to make the roster, the team can move on without a hitch.
What’s Next for Thompson?
As training camp unfolds, all eyes will be on Thompson to see if he can recapture the form that made him a standout in Carolina. If he can stay healthy, contribute on special teams, and leverage his experience, he might just defy the odds and secure a spot. Otherwise, the Bills could part ways with their new signing before he even steps onto the field for a regular-season snap—a shocking outcome for a player with such a decorated past.