Panthers GM interviews taking place without key figure
The Carolina Panthers are beginning interviews for their general manager position…
Carolina Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman was let go just prior to the beginning of training camp last season. After four years in the position and a track record for making difficult fiscal decisions regardless of fan reaction, the potential contract extensions of veterans Thomas Davis and Greg Olsen were thought to be a sticking point between Gettleman and the team.
After his firing the Panthers turned to former general manager Marty Hurney, who served in the same position for 10-plus seasons from 2002-2012. Hurney immediately began making moves, was given complete control of the roster and will now interview to have his interim title removed.
Originally, Hurney was given control of the team through the NFL Draft in April via his contract but the timing of interviews for the vacancy seems to indicate this would not be the case should another candidate be hired. Having experience with the organization helps and Hurney is considered the front-runner but the Panthers are lining up meetings with other candidates.
According to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport the team is scheduled to interview Houston Texans assistant GM, Jimmy Raye III on Thursday and Buffalo Bills assistant scouting director Lake Dawson this Friday. Hurney is also expected to receive an interview at some point during the week.
More from Cat Crave
- Ranking the top-five QB prospects the Panthers could draft in 2023
- 4 remaining Carolina Panthers cap crunches after Damien Wilson release
- Could Duce Staley help Carolina Panthers land Jamaal Williams in 2023?
- How much could the Carolina Panthers afford to offer Lamar Jackson?
- 4 Panthers rumors to emerge from 2023 NFL Scouting Combine
One of the biggest concerns about the interviews is obviously the timing. Team personnel, including Hurney, were in Mobile, Alabama this past weekend for the Reese’s Senior Bowl evaluating and meeting with potential draft picks. If Hurney is not given the full time job then his replacement will inherit a draft board already beginning to take shape.
The absence of a team owner also adds to the uncertainty surrounding the organization. Entering perhaps the most pivotal offseason in team history, moving forward with any permanent hirings in the front office is questionable. If anything, Hurney should be granted an interim status until a new owner is found.
At that point, the new ownership can elect how to proceed regarding the general manager vacancy and hiring process. However, it seems the team is focused on moving forward regardless of the pending sale of the franchise and it doesn’t appear any of the potential replacements, not named Hurney, will receive a legitimate opportunity.
Next: 2018 Preview - Divisional Games
It would be surprising if another candidate was hired, but following a season riddled with unforeseen circumstances it may just be the new normal.