In somewhat surprising news on Monday, the Carolina Panthers fired general manager Dave Gettleman. It did not take long before some of his former players blasted Gettleman on social media.
On the opposite side, the firing of Gettleman garnered quite a different reaction from offensive tackle Michael Oher.
Panthers OT Michael Oher on ex-GM Dave Gettleman. I'd say this says more about him than how he handles contract talks. pic.twitter.com/cth2K5Oepi
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) July 18, 2017
Oher is preparing to report for training camp but is still dealing with concussion issues. Gettleman appears to have kept in touch with Oher quite frequently to check on his health and mental status over the past several months.
For this, Oher must have felt compelled to stand up for Gettleman considering the circumstances.
Gettleman was relieved of his duties by owner Jerry Richardson who cited that “a change is needed.” His past actions clearly rubbed several former Panthers players the wrong way.
Gettleman is also largely responsible for failing to protect franchise quarterback Cam Newton. The end result was a pitiful 6-10 mark and last-place finish in 2016.
Keeping all of this in mind, it would be interesting to see if any other Panthers players go against the grain and join Oher in support of Gettleman.