Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper hasn’t had an easy ride since taking over the team in 2018. The Panthers’ performance under his ownership has been less than stellar, marked by a 30-63 record and a consistent absence from the playoffs.
Tepper recently dismissed his third head coach within a five-year span, Frank Reich, after a disappointing 1-10 start in Reich’s inaugural season at the helm.
Addressing the media, Tepper pushed back on the perception that his impatience triggered the revolving door of coaches, causing uncertainty within the organization. He emphasized his patience but tied it to performance, expressing a desire for long-term stability, envisioning a coach capable of delivering his eulogy someday.
The team’s subpar performance since Tepper’s takeover ranks among the NFL’s worst. Despite this, he remains committed to finding a lasting coaching solution, acknowledging the need for improvement and self-reflection.
Reich’s departure was influenced by the team’s struggle to provide a conducive environment for the 2023 NFL Draft’s top pick, Bryce Young. The quarterback has faced challenges, reflected in the Panthers’ league-worst record by Week 12. Young’s rookie season has seen ups and downs, making his selection over CJ Stroud, the No. 2 pick excelling with the Houston Texans, a subject of scrutiny.
Tepper defended the decision, stating the Panthers were confident in Young as their top pick, although initially, they anticipated picking Stroud assuming the Texans would select Young. He reaffirmed Young as their choice despite Stroud’s impressive performance elsewhere.
