Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper held a virtual press conference today with the local Charlotte sports media. He spoke on a variety of different topics and answered several questions. Here is a recap of what he said:
- There has been significant improvement with diversity throughout the franchise on both the management level and the work force.
- Construction has begun at the site of the new team headquarters in Rock Hill SC which will be ready in the next three years.
- Has not ruled out returning back to Wofford College in Spartanburg SC as an interim training camp but did not commit either.
- Having a new open-air stadium has more appeal now than it did a year ago.
- There has not been any recent conversation with the owners of Charlotte Pipe and Foundry who are relocating which could be the new stadium site.
- Hopes that fans will be allowed at Bank of America Stadium later on during the season because he loves to interact with the crowds before each game.
- Is still bothered by the hard decision to furlough/layoff several stadium employees due to changes in the organization and the pandemic effects on the economy.
- Richardson statue was taken down for safety reasons and will not return to Bank of America Stadium.
- The decision to release QB Cam Newton was very difficult for him. His wife Nicole was crying alot about it as well.
- Has not had time to think about GM Marty Hurney contract expiring in June 2021 but will look into it later on.