:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/55746579/usa_today_9909981.0.jpg)
With NFL training camps opening in just a bit more than a week, the Carolina Panthers have fired general manager Dave Gettleman, who was with the New York Giants’ personnel department from 1998-2012.
Here is the release from the Panthers, quoting owner Jerry Richardson:
“After much thought and a long evaluation of our football operations, I have decided to relieve Dave Gettleman of his duties as general manager,” Richardson said. “I want to thank Dave for the role he played in our success over the past four seasons. While the timing of this decision is not ideal, a change is needed.”
NFL Insider Ian Rapoport seems as stunned as anyone else by the news:
There had been rumblings that all was not well with Gettleman and owner Jerry Richardson stemming from allowing star CB Josh Norman to walk.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 17, 2017
The timing is nuts. #Panthers people were all on vacation. GM Dave Gettleman returns… & finds himself as a former GM. Camp starts in a week
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 17, 2017
Gettleman became GM of the Panthers in 2013. Carolina finished 6-10 in 2016 after making the playoffs in each of Gettleman’s first three seasons with the team. The Panthers won the NFC Championship in 2015.
This is odd, stunning timing. Whatever differences Richardson and Gettleman might have had, why allow the GM to run free agency, conduct the draft and fire him as the season is ready to begin? Very strange.
Check out SB Nation’s Cat Scratch Reader for reaction and more information.