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Former Panther Giving Up on NFL Career to Pursue Coaching

The NFL offseason is all about career changes. With that in mind, one former Carolina Panther just revealed that he's going to pursue a coaching career.
ByDevon Platana|
Carolina Panthers offensive tackle Taylor Moton (72) and center Matt Paradis (61) and quarterback Sam Darnold (14) and tight end Colin Thompson (86) and tight end Dan Arnold (85) and center Pat Elflein (60) during the national anthem at Bank of America Stadium.
Carolina Panthers offensive tackle Taylor Moton (72) and center Matt Paradis (61) and quarterback Sam Darnold (14) and tight end Colin Thompson (86) and tight end Dan Arnold (85) and center Pat Elflein (60) during the national anthem at Bank of America Stadium. | Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Players around the NFL must face tough decisions every offseason. Whether it's signing a new contract or deciding if they still want to continue their football career, a lot of self-reflection will be done around the league in the coming months.

In fact, some players have already made decisions about their NFL careers — including one former Carolina Panthers tight end.

Panthers News: Colin Thompson Retires to Pursue Coaching Career

On Thursday, former Panthers TE Colin Thompson (2020-22) revealed that he's retiring from the NFL. The 31-year-old Doylestown, PA native revealed in his retirement announcement that he will now try his hand at coaching.

"After years of playing the game I love, it's time for the next chapter," Thompson wrote on X. "I'm officially retiring from playing football and pursuing a career in coaching."

"Football has given me everything, and though I’ll miss playing, the game will always be a part of me. Excited for what’s ahead!"

After a solid collegiate career split between Florida and Temple, Thompson joined the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent following the 2017 draft. He eventually joined the Chicago Bears before his rookie season, spending two years in the Windy City before a brief run in the AAF and XFL.

Thompson made his NFL return by signing with the Panthers in April 2020, reuniting him with former Temple head coach Matt Rhule. The 6-foot-4 TE thrived as a blocker in his first season with the Panthers, playing to a Pro Football Focus pass block grade of 82.2.

Thompson's performance created the following season, though, landing him on the Panthers' practice squad before the 2022 campaign. After failing to play a game that year, he signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2023 only to be waived before the season even began.

Even though he didn't leave the biggest mark in Panthers history, Thompson is a well-liked individual who made the most of his time in Charlotte.

Best of luck in your future, Colin!

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