Thomas Davis Contemplating Retirement Already?

[Saca312]

I just came across this. Assumed it was just speculation rather than based on facts, but read into it and see it does have some ground.

I may be overthinking this, like this writer though, but here's what was said:

http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000760370/article/will-2017-be-thomas-davis-final-season-with-panthers

Quote

Davis was forced to confront his football future at a recent charity event when his daughter raised her hand and asked, "Why aren't you around more?"

After Monday night's victory over the Washington Redskins, Davis clarified comments from ESPN's game broadcast that he's "seriously contemplating retirement" as a result of that question from his daughter.

This is something to consider. He mentions how he feels he needs to give more time to his family, which being a football player provides little of when playing for the season. However, he also mentions that he feels he's still playing at a high level, and hopes he can keep continuing.

Quote

Although he understands that he "can't play this game forever," Davis told Black and Blue Review that he has no plans to hang up his cleats.

"Right now, I feel like I'm still playing at a high level," Davis explained. "I feel like I'm still contributing to this team. As long as I can do that, I want to play."

Davis is signed through the 2017 season. If he turns in another good season at age 34, would he consider playing in 2018 and beyond?

"I don't know. We'll see," Davis said. "If the team is willing to have me for longer, then I'll be willing to stay as long as my body allows me."

What I'm getting is a conflicted Davis. He wants to keep playing, but he knows he has family obligations and the cruelty of old age creeping up on him.

Thomas Davis, if you couldn't tell, has been one of my favorite Panthers, and his style is just phenominal.

Will Thomas Davis really retire soon? Will we see him beyond 2017?

[nctarheel0619]

Next year should be his last.  I want TD to retire on top.  Not declining like some other players in NFL history.  

Also, Gettlemen better fix this poo so we can try to get this man a damn ring, finally.  

[Kakarot]

Yea, I think next year is it for TD. Hopefully, we're able to have a great year next season.

[Ornias]

Screw retirement, make him the linebackers coach. 

[ladypanther]

14 minutes ago, Saca312 said:

would he consider playing in 2018 and beyond?

"I don't know. We'll see," Davis said. "If the team is willing to have me for longer, then I'll be willing to stay as long as my body allows me."

Next year may not be his last.

[Saca312]

Just now, ladypanther said:

Next year may not be his last.

That's what I'm hoping, but even if he is still going at 100%, what about his obligations to his family that he says he's torn about.

That's really what I'm concerned about.

[Captain Morgan]

if next year is his farewell tour, so be it.  If he retires this year, so be it.  He's earned it, as much as I want him back one more time.

[Catufb85]

everything should be set up for a great season for TD next year.  We need to send TD out on top.  Great core of talent, a top 15 draft pick, over $40 mill in cap space.  We need to put the pieces in place to go for it all next year.  Its a must win season every year in the NFL and I think the Panthers realized that nothing is promised. Just because you go one year doesn't mean people will lay down and let you repeat.  Need to go ahead and start a #DoItForTD #52for58

[hepcat]

We all know it's coming, he's getting up there. I hope he can play a few more years.

[Castavar]

Come back ALL IN next year, Gettleman better redeem himself and do his best to shore up our weaknesses, win the superbowl, TD retires after with a much deserved ring, and bring in the era of Shaq Thompson.

[BIGH2001]

he needs a ray lewis send off without the sketchiness of ray lewis

Sent from my SM-N920V using CarolinaHuddle mobile app

[iamhubby1]

37 minutes ago, Saca312 said:

That's what I'm hoping, but even if he is still going at 100%, what about his obligations to his family that he says he's torn about.

That's really what I'm concerned about.

 

Most guys with families probably go through this as well. It hits even harder during the off-season. Where you have to force yourself to work out, even though you may want to spend the time with your fam.

 

Like most guys, he will more than likely play until he feels he is done. He has money, he has respect. He can play as long as he wants. He knows he is nearing the end. So yeah, he his conflicted.

 

Dang kids. Leave TD alone. He has football to get ready for. lol

[TheSpecialJuan]

Oh no

[General_Purr]

See and people on here want to Ban Shaq from the team..

 

In a few years it will be Luke, Shaq and who? And remember injuries occur often.. you need 4 nice LBs to compete.