Carolina Panthers flaming seats
Pressure is building to high levels within the Carolina Panthers after moving to 1-10. That's unfortunately not a typo after one of the worst starts to a season in the franchise's eventful three decades as an NFL operation.
There are obvious signs of growing friction, too. Perhaps the biggest of all came from team owner David Tepper, who was seen leaving the locker room firing off an expletive and shaking his head in disgust according to the media waiting to speak with players.
Leaving the locker room, David Tepper shook his head and yelled, “F—-!”
— Joe Person (@josephperson) November 26, 2023
He didn't speak to head coach Frank Reich immediately after. But you can bet your bottom dollar a difficult conversation is going to occur in the coming hours.
Will Kunkel of FOX Houston and formerly of FOX Charlotte stated via sources that Reich's seat has gone from hot to flaming following another woeful offensive display - the second in succession since he took over play-calling duties from offensive coordinator Thomas Brown.
I’m told Frank Reich’s coaching seat is “on fire,” per source.
— Will Kunkel (@WillKunkelFOX) November 26, 2023
While Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network said Tepper would evaluate everything at the end of the campaign, this has gone way over the tipping point. The big plans and delusions emanating from those in power before the campaign are long gone, replaced by the prospect of yet another reset after one season with the current regime.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay: #Rams RB Kyren Williams will be the lead back; #Panthers coach Frank Reich’s future likely to be evaluated after the season; The #Commanders hoped to stabilized things by firing DC Jack Del Rio. pic.twitter.com/oLMxYJevBy
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 26, 2023
Of course, that won't change the biggest problem of all. Tepper is the root of all evil in Carolina and unless he alters his approach, the Panthers are unlikely to flourish.