Mount Rushmore of most hated figures in Carolina Panthers history
By Dean Jones
Who makes it onto the Mount Rushmore of the most hated figures in Carolina Panthers franchise history?
It certainly hasn’t been dull where the Carolina Panthers are concerned throughout franchise history. The team has enjoyed the biggest of highs and the lowest of lows, with their current stretch without playoff football rapidly becoming an ongoing concern and leaving many wondering just how long it will take for this once-proud organization to get back into contention.
That will come down to what decisions are made during the upcoming offseason. With the prospect of a new head coach and franchise quarterback coming into the fold, the conclusions made by those in power will have grave implications for Carolina’s short and long-term aspirations.
There have been some truly beloved members of the Panthers. However, many will also go down in infamy for their performance levels or indiscretions away from the gridiron.
With that in mind, here is our Mount Rushmore of the most hated figures in Carolina’s history spanning almost three decades.
Panther No. 1
Dave Gettleman – Former Carolina Panthers GM
While Dave Gettleman oversaw the Carolina Panthers’ memorable run to the Super Bowl in 2015, the former general manager’s time with the franchise won’t be remembered fondly.
His mismanagement of team affairs and failure to provide quarterback Cam Newton with the weapons or the protection needed to get over the hump still leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. So it was no surprise to see him shown the door in 2017.
Gettleman’s conflict with legendary wide receiver Steve Smith which led to his departure is another stain on his record in Carolina. He got another opportunity with the New York Giants, but that didn’t exactly go according to plan and the front office figure was fired following the 2021 campaign.