Fan frustration reached a boiling point after the Carolina Panthers’ first shutout in 21 years, leading even team owner David Tepper to question the team’s performance despite signing college star Bryce Young.
Following the dismissal of Frank Reich in his first season with the Panthers amidst their performance woes, the focus now squarely rests on Tepper, prompting former player Cam Newton to subtly criticize the owner.
Cam Newton talks about David Tepper’s penalty
In a recent episode of “4th & 1” featuring a former Panthers player, the spotlight was on David Tepper’s controversial act that stirred up a storm of criticism. The episode provided insights into the owner’s behavior, prompting discussions on its repercussions.
As Tepper’s activities came under investigation, quarterback Cam Newton stepped forward to share his thoughts on the matter. Newton calmly discussed the situation and subtly suggested a possible comeback to represent the Carolinas, drawing on his successful time with the Panthers as he explores his options in free agency.
“If I’m given the opportunity to represent the beautiful states of North and South Carolina, situations like this would not, and I mean will not happen, not on my watch… This is something that could have been avoided, and it should have been avoided.”
Newton, not mincing words, declared Tepper’s actions as inexcusable and subtly criticized the billionaire owner with the remark, “But the point is: David Tepper, you got caught bro.”
David Tepper’s already challenging season took a turn for the worse during the Panthers-Jaguars game in Jacksonville. Faced with a disappointing 26-0 defeat, Tepper’s frustration boiled over, and he was caught on video seemingly tossing a drink from his suit at a heckling Jaguars fan.
The motive behind Tepper’s drink-throwing incident remains unclear, but it appears to be a spontaneous outburst fueled by the intense emotions of witnessing a lopsided defeat. The incident stirred controversy and criticism, putting Tepper in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.
Did Panther owner David Tepper apologize after the NFL fine?
Following the incident, David Tepper didn’t shy away from acknowledging his mistake and promptly issued an apology.
Tepper’s apology statement conveyed a profound sense of remorse for his actions on Sunday, acknowledging that he should have deferred to NFL stadium security to address any incidents that occurred. The individual acknowledged and honored the NFL’s code of conduct, willingly accepting the disciplinary measures imposed by the league for their actions.
“I am deeply passionate about this team and regret my behavior on Sunday. I should have let NFL stadium security handle any issues that arose. I respect the NFL’s code of conduct and accept the League’s discipline for my behavior,” his statement read, per People.
His statement broke out after the league provided a shot at his bank account. In a statement, the league labeled Tepper’s behavior as unacceptable and imposed a $300,000 penalty. The NFL reiterated its expectation that all personnel conduct themselves in ways that respect fans and reflect positively on their team and the league.
Nevertheless, the incident, though regrettable, will work as evidence for all the team owners that even owners are bound by the league’s rules and are subject to consequences when those rules are breached.
