4 pros and cons to the Carolina Panthers hiring Sean Payton

Mixed response from Carolina Panthers fans

When the news broke about the Carolina Panthers receiving permission to speak with Sean Payton, the reaction was mixed within the fanbase. Some wanted no part of the former New Orleans Saints head coach for various reasons while others salivated at the prospect of such an esteemed figure joining the franchise.

Payton’s history with the Saints, the Bountygate saga, and the fact Carolina needs to sacrifice a strong draft pick or two in this scenario are among the red flags outlined by the Panthers’ long-suffering support. These are legitimate worries that team owner David Tepper must also factor into his decision-making process.

While there is no denying Payton’s coaching credentials, this appointment needs to be universally approved. Especially considering how fractured the relationship between the Panthers and their fans became when Matt Rhule called the shots.

The only opinion that matters is Tepper’s. It would be wise for the billionaire to lean on the football people within the building, but the allure of someone like Payton makes this an intriguing option no matter what Carolina has to cough up financially and to the Saints.

Winning cures all, obviously. But this indifferent response from fans would mean Payton must hit the ground running in pursuit of getting everyone on the same page.