It’s been a while since the media and fans heard from David Tepper, but Wednesday the Panthers’ owner spoke to media for the first time since 2020 ahead of the NFL Draft. While Tepper addressed (or didn’t address) a slew of topics, we did learn a few things from his availability:
Matt Rhule Isn’t Going Anywhere
Many fans may have lost patience with the process, but David Tepper hasn’t. During his opening statement he thanked and complimented head coach Matt Rhule on the changes he’s made to the coaching staff during the offseason – calling it “real progress toward winning.” He also definitively said he believes in Coach Rhule and that he has his full support, adding that he’s not looking at the team’s past results, he’s focused on the now.
No New Information on Rock Hill
Although several questions were asked, there’s no new news about the status of the Panthers’ practice facility in Rock Hill (earlier this month construction was paused on the project). Tepper, who said he was asked by the City of Rock Hill not to comment publicly on negotiations, deferred to a statement released last week when pressed about future plans for the facility.
There’s Confidence in Sam Darnold
When asked, given his performance last year, why he considers Sam Darnold a “very good quarterback,” Tepper mentioned last year’s 3-0 start, how Christian McCaffrey’s injury affected the offense and injuries to the offensive line – adding that free agency acquisitions along the line will help with protection issues. It’s important to note that it’s highly unlikely that anyone from the Panthers will express anything but confidence in Darnold heading into this week’s draft.
Practicing Patience
While winning is still important, David Tepper is practicing patience when is comes to the Panthers and the foundation Matt Rhule is building. “I don’t like to lose,” Tepper said. “Who likes to lose? I was to win, but it takes time to create the foundation to win. I do believe that coach Rhule and Scott are doing a great job at creating that foundation.” Tepper also asked fans for patience as the franchise looks to build a team that has sustained winning – adding that he’s not sure how long that will take.
Building Blocks
While patience is requested and required, Tepper says the Panthers are making strides in building a foundation.
“If we have an expectation for sustained winning we have to build it and have patience. I know that’s hard to do. I want to win now, but I know you still have to build a foundation and there have been building blocks. There have been some things statistically on defense, we are building in free agency, we brought some quality coaches here and things that we will be doing. I’m excited about the new season. What was then is then and what is now is now, and I’m ready to go.”
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