5 critical decisions that caused Matt Rhule’s demise with the Panthers
By Dean Jones
Matt Rhule didn’t replace team legends effectively
There was always going to be a period of transition for the Carolina Panthers after Matt Rhule’s arrival. Things had become stale under Ron Rivera and the glory days of 2015 seemed like a lifetime ago, leaving the new arrival facing a precarious situation.
Rhule offered no sentiment when it came to removing team legends from the fold. Greg Olsen was allowed to depart in 2020 free agency for the Seattle Seahawks and despite saying otherwise, the Panthers also unceremoniously released Cam Newton extremely late into the preparation period.
Couple this with Luke Kuechly’s shock retirement to preserve his long-term health and the life and soul of Carolina had been ripped away. Something Rhule didn’t replace effectively.
The three aforementioned former players brought so much to their respective positions. Carolina hasn’t enjoyed anything like the same production at tight end, linebacker, or quarterback ever since and not prioritizing good enough replacements was a constant source of frustration.
This had a significant impact on the playing side of things, but it also increased the disenchantment between the Panthers and its loyal fanbase. Nothing lasts forever, obviously, but Rhule couldn’t mask these failings with enough wins and is now looking for alternative employment.