Thomas Davis

Davis turns 38 later this month and is signing a one-day contract with the Panthers to retire as a member of the team after spending his first 14 years there before one-year stints with the Chargers and Washington. He was actually officially released by Washington on Wednesday. One of the best off-ball linebackers of his playing days, Davis overcame three torn ACLs throughout his career and went to three Pro Bowls. The 14th overall pick of the 2005 draft, Davis appeared in 199 career games, recording 29 sacks, 18 forced fumbles, 13 interceptions, and 11 fumble recoveries. He’ll likely be part of Carolina’s Ring of Honor.

37-year-old Davis originally planned to retire following the 2019 season, but he changed his mind. Injuries have helped limit Davis to only 137 snaps in 2020, his 16th season. A 2015 first-team All-Pro, Davis' career has been one of a few huge years, injury comebacks and occasionally questionable hits. Davis lacks a Hall-of-Fame résumé, but his longevity will probably at least make it a conversation. 

Davis, who reunited with his old pal Ron Rivera after recording 112 tackles for the Chargers last year, was expected to play an integral role as the veteran presence behind Washington's star-studded (albeit youthful) front-seven. Fifth-rounder Khaleke Hudson will play a rotational role in Thomas' stead on Sunday.

If you've played for or coached with Ron Rivera before, then chances are you'll be signed by Washington this offseason. Davis became an All-Pro talent under Rivera in Carolina, but proved he can still play football well into his 30s with the Chargers last season. In Los Angeles, he made 122 tackles, his highest since 2013. Expect Davis to compete for a starting role, but Rivera is probably most excited about Davis' leadership as he builds the culture in Washington.