Owner Weighs in on Problems for Panthers

Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson ended his media silence on Wednesday, speaking to a few reporters who had gathered to hear the owner’s perspective on the Carolina Panthers’ previous season, as well as the future of the franchise.  Richardson stated for the record that he never considered firing coach John Fox or general manager Marty Hurny, even during the team’s five game losing streak during the season.  He has a very strict policy of not speaking to the media about players, coaches, or any other employees who are under contract.  He did not waiver from his stance this year and doesn’t expect to do so anytime soon.

Richardson also weighed in on what the Panthers need to do to right their ship.  Richardson spoke highly of the Rooney family - owners of the Pittsburgh Steelers - and said he wants to emulate their organization within the Panthers.  He has placed an emphasis on running the ball and stopping the run, which means that young running back DeAngelo Hall needs to start getting more touches, and the defense needs to step it up, or reload, or something.  They certainly didn’t look extremely dominant in the 2007 season, so it will be interesting to see what the Panthers do to prepare for 2008.

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