Thank You Thomas Davis
“Panther Nation, just know that in no way did I ever imagine putting on another uniform—still to this day don’t want to do it. But I want to play football. So if that’s the way I’m going to be able to continue my career, then it’s something that I have to do.” --Thomas Davis
Photo: Carolina Panthers
Thomas Davis,
On behalf of all Panther fans, we at The Sports Chief would like to thank you. Thank you for representing our city of Charlotte. Thank you for representing the Panther franchise. Thank you for representing all the people who have dreams in life, but feel they are unlikely to achieve them. You represent all these things in the highest fashion and truly are an example of what every athlete should strive to be.
The career numbers on the field speak for themselves. You have been a staple as a linebacker for the Panthers for 14 seasons, getting selected to three pro bowls, first team all-pro, and a second team all-pro. You have been the heart and soul of the Panthers defense for so long and a great mentor for the newer players. And nobody in the NFL is tougher than you. We all feared after your third ACL tear that your career was over, but you proved everyone wrong by not only coming back, but making a huge impact once you were back. I think the lasting memory for many Panther fans that embody your toughness was the picture of your sowed-up arm before the Super Bowl. There was no way you were going to miss out on playing in it. You are a true competitor.
Even more than the on-field accomplishments, it is your off-field ambitions that truly endear yourself to Panther and NFL fans. No one in the sports world has done more for our community than you with your Defending Dreams Foundation. You grant opportunities to people that they never would have imagined possible. The college scholarships, school supply giveaways, Thanksgiving meals, Christmas giveaways, camps held, and many other things you do for our community are why you’ll always be a fan favorite. More importantly, they are why thousands of people have better lives. You never forgot where you came from, even as an NFL star. You understand how much of an influence athletes have, and use that to make as many positive impacts as you can. When people think of the Carolina Panthers, I hope they think of Thomas Davis.
We know you are moving on from the Panthers now and we wish you nothing but the best. You have given everything you had to this franchise and this city, and we will never be able to thank you enough. Wherever you end up, we hope you will always consider Charlotte home because you are certainly one of our favorite sons. You will always be a Carolina Panther. Thank you TD.
The Sports Chief