Cat Crave
FanSided

Former Carolina Panthers purchase arena football team in Queen City

By Brandon Scott

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 01: Former Carolina Panthers player Thomas Davis during the game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center on March 01, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MARCH 01: Former Carolina Panthers player Thomas Davis during the game between the Charlotte Hornets and the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center on March 01, 2020 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Two former Carolina Panthers reunite for arena football in the Queen City.

The NFL is undoubtedly atop the food chain of professional organizations providing football as a product for the general public to enjoy. However, there are other smaller entities scattered across not only the United States but internationally, who also attempt to fill the void during those months when no NFL games are taking place. The Carolina Panthers joined the top league in the mid-1990’s and now two former teammates are trying their hand at running an arena league team in the Charlotte market.

The American Arena League, formed via a merger of two other organizations back in 2017, operates 10 teams in eight states. One of those is North Carolina as the former Charlotte Energy played in each of the last two seasons before being sold and re-branded prior to this year’s games.

Two former Panthers, linebacker Thomas Davis and receiver Tedd Ginn, are new owners of the now – Charlotte Thunder. Teammates during the 2015 and 2016 seasons, both assisted in the magical 15-1 regular season (2015) culminating with a Super Bowl appearance.

More from Cat Crave

Davis, a Walter Payton Man of the Year Award winner and fan favorite, played in the Queen City every year of his professional career after being drafted in 2005 until last season. The long-time Panthers linebacker developed a special relationship with Luke Kuechly and helped lead one of the best defenses late in his career. Now a member of the Los Angeles Chargers, Davis maintains his commitment to the city of Charlotte with this new business venture.

Ginn, who recently ended a three-year deal with NFC South divisional rival New Orleans after leaving Carolina, is an unrestricted free agent. At 35 years old when the 2020 season kicks off, his future is uncertain but free agents may begin signing with teams next Wednesday (March 18) when the new league year begins.

dark. Next. Trevor Lawrence Tank Plan?

Having these familiar faces at the helm of this arena league team is sure to help assist in developing a fan base for the Thunder.

Home/Carolina Panthers News