Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson announces his intent to sell the franchise following the season…
Amid allegations involving workplace misconduct, Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson shockingly announced plans to sell his stake in the franchise he brought to Carolina over twenty-five years ago. As principal owner, where the Panthers go from here remains a mystery.
Richardson made bringing an NFL franchise to the Carolinas a priority and eventually achieved his goal. Serving as the only owner who also played in the league, Richardson had a sizable amount of responsibility and influence over fellow owners and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
Just prior to kickoff against the Green Bay Packers, Sports Illustrated released an article detailing some of the allegations against the Panthers owner. Also, after announcing an independent investigation into the accusations, the NFL assumed responsibility of the case.
Following a Panthers win, keeping them firmly entrenched into the NFC playoff picture, Richardson released a five paragraph statement via the team website indicating his intention to sell the franchise.
Almost immediately, speculation of moving the team surfaced but such action will largely be dependent on who assumes primary control by purchasing the team. Potential suitors are lining up although Richardson states no offers will be entertained until the season has concluded.
Proceed to see who could occupy the Panthers owner’s suite next season.
Bruton Smith
One potential candidate with ties to the Charlotte area includes Charlotte Motor Speedway owner and chairman of Speedway Motorsports, Bruton Smith. A native North Carolinian, Smith has ties to the area and is already well versed in both ownership and governing bodies after dealing with NASCAR for many years.
Not too long ago, Smith even entertained the idea of purchasing the Panthers should they ever become available. Despite being older than Richardson, Smith has two sons who would likely run the team if he takes over ownership.
Richardson’s part is expected to be valued at just over $1.0 billion, meaning Smith would have the financial capabilities to make an outright purchase.
Michael Jordan
Another native North Carolinian, Michael Jordan could be looking to expand his current portfolio. The current owner of the Charlotte Hornets, Jordan has spent his retirement in management while continuing to profit from numerous endorsement campaigns.
Jordan obviously has ties to the area and knows the city well. He too has the financial means to make for a smooth transfer of power if interested in taking over responsibility of an NFL franchise in addition to his many years with the NBA.
Sean Combs aka Diddy
Almost immediately after word of the Panthers franchise going on the market surfaced, Sean Combs threw his hat in the ring. Known simply as Diddy, Combs sent a tweet saying he was interested before posting a video about his immediate plans for the franchise.
While the ownership of Diddy may be far fetched, his social media posts and encouragement from one of the Panthers biggest fans has people talking. Forbes estimates his net worth at roughly $820 million indicating if he were to be a primary candidate, any help Steph Curry could contribute would be needed.
Current Minority Owners
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Richardson remains the founder and principal owner of the franchise but his minority owners obviously have stake in the franchise. Already partially invested, it is safe to assume a few could pool their resources in an effort to purchase a majority stake.
Filled with potential candidates, minority owners: Rosalind R. Richardson, Mark Richardson, Ashley Richardson Allen, M.C. Belk Pilon, Tim Belk, H.C. Bissell, Erskine Bowles, Derick S. Close, Elliott S. Close, Cameron M. Harris, John W. Harris, Leon Levine, Jerry Wordsworth or Steve Wordsworth could be the next in line.
For now, focus remains on the 2017 season and brining a Super Bowl to the Carolina Panthers. News of the allegations and pending investigation are sure to be distractions as the team moves forward with Richardson’s announcement to change ownership a step at easing the burden felt by the players.
Next: Internal Investigation Another Distraction
If the season concludes with Carolina hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, expect the purchase price and potential number of candidates to both increase.