5 critical observations from the Carolina Panthers 2022 offseason so far
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers owner taking the silent approach
One person that fans have yet to hear from following another disastrous season for the Carolina Panthers is David Tepper. The team owner has been front and center when it comes to the spotlight since buying the organization from Jerry Richardson, but another five-win year has seen the billionaire step into the shadows.
Tepper has made a big call by giving Matt Rhule another shot at redemption. But his silence leaves many wondering just why he’s decided to keep faith with the head coach when things clearly aren’t progressing in the right manner.
According to Joe Person of The Athletic, Tepper is reportedly embarrassed by the seven-year, $62 million contract given to Rhule in order to secure his services and keep him away from the New York Giants. However, admitting a mistake behind the scenes and doing so in public are two completely different things.
Tepper isn’t obliged to speak with the media. But considering how willing he’s been in this regard previously, it’s something of a surprise.
There will come a time when Tepper has to face the music. And with Charlotte FC’s inaugural season about to get underway, that might be sooner than anticipated.
The owner deserves credit for keeping ambitious plans at Rock Hill on track despite the uncertain COVID-19 climate. But fans want to see a winner on the field and this is something Tepper has failed to produce so far.