Carolina Panthers on shaky ground with new ownership on the horizon

The Carolina Panthers may be the most resilient franchise in the NFL…

Different issues continually hampered an otherwise successful 2017 campaign for the Carolina Panthers. Beginning almost simultaneously with the ending of regular season play last year, skeptics began to ask why franchise quarterback Cam Newton played the final few games with a torn rotator cuff. After unsuccessful rehab, surgery was elected in late March causing even more controversy.

It would only be the start and a minor issue compared to the storm brewing for Panthers fans and the team itself. Just before training camp, owner Jerry Richardson decided to part ways with general manager Dave Gettleman, who did restructure the team’s finances despite making some unpopular decisions along the way.

Marty Hurney was selected as an interim and given control of the team through the upcoming NFL Draft but recent allegations from his ex-wife halted an expected Panthers announcement of him being named the full-time replacement.

During the year both on and off the field issues surfaced. Newton was his usual lightning rod for controversy with an unpopular reaction to a female reporter’s question about wide receiver routes, in addition to walking out of another press conference after asking for another question.

Toward the end of the season, veteran cornerback Captain Munnerlyn walked out of practice and was ruled inactive for the following game. Reported to be unhappy with his playing time at different points in the season, Munnerlyn’s return left much to be desired.

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All would eventually appear as only minor hiccups along the way with the unfolding events occurring at the season’s end. Richardson became the focal point of an investigation into workplace misconduct and consequently announced his intention to sell the franchise.

Despite not having an owner, a suspended general manager hiring process and entirely new coordinator coaching staff – the Panthers are pressing forward. While it may not be in the best interest of the team to proceed, those still involved are doing their best to create a sense of stability.

Coach Ron Rivera had his contract extended, a few veterans are opting to return (although linebacker Thomas Davis and center Ryan Kalil have already announced retirement plans) and the team was expected to hire Hurney – a familiar face and someone who has strong ties to the organization.

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All steps to keep a foundation protected from the storm, although a new owner could clean house immediately upon arrival.

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