Since David Tepper acquired the Carolina Panthers in 2018, the franchise has been marked by instability, with repeated coaching changes, roster upheaval, and failed attempts to secure a franchise quarterback. Tepper’s tenure has yet to yield a winning season, and his decisions have left fans frustrated and yearning for consistency.
Coaching Carousel
In just seven years, Tepper has cycled through seven head coaches. Ron Rivera, a two-time NFL Coach of the Year, was fired in 2019 after a 12-16 run under Tepper, despite being one of the most respected figures in Panthers history. Matt Rhule followed with an abysmal 11-27 record, further damaging the team’s prospects. Tepper’s refusal to retain Steve Wilks, who stabilized the team with a 6-6 record as an interim coach, was another contentious move, especially since Wilks gave the team an identity they had been lacking.
Quarterback Roulette
The Panthers have seen an unprecedented turnover at quarterback, with eight different starters since 2018. Cam Newton’s abrupt departure, followed by a parade of temporary solutions including Kyle Allen, Sam Darnold, and Baker Mayfield, led to uncertainty. Bryce Young, the most recent high-profile acquisition, was brought in after the Panthers traded a wealth of picks to secure him. However, the inconsistency under center has only worsened the team’s struggles.