Shaq Thompson’s tenure in Carolina was defined by his unwavering leadership and durability—until recently. Drafted in the first round in 2015, Thompson quickly became a key piece of a defense led by legends like Luke Kuechly and Thomas Davis.

Thompson, the linebacker who ranks fourth on the Carolina Panthers’ all-time tackle list, has been informed by the team that it will be moving in another direction at his position. Thompson, 30, will enter NFL free agency.