Carolina Panthers (2-14) owner David Tepper issued a statement Tuesday after being fined $300,000 for his “unacceptable conduct” during the 26-0 Week 17 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars (9-7) Sunday at EverBank Stadium.
“I am deeply passionate about this team and regret my behavior on Sunday,” Tepper said. “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.”
Tepper was videoed throwing a drink on a Jaguars fan out of the window of the suite he was in. The incident appeared to occur after quarterback Bryce Young threw an interception late in the fourth quarter. Tepper is the second-richest owner in the league, carrying a net worth of $20.6 billion. Per ESPN, the fine represents less than 1% of 1% of his wealth.
“All NFL personnel are expected to conduct themselves at all times in ways that respect our fans and favorably reflect on their team and the NFL,” the league said in a statement.
David Tepper loses his cool as Panthers lose another game
Minutes after the incident, Carolina was shut out for the first time since 2002. The Panthers solidified having the worst record in the NFL this season, though they don’t own the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. That, of course, belongs to the Chicago Bears (7-9), who acquired Carolina’s 2024 pick in a trade this past March.
Tepper made the deal to draft Young, confident that the former Alabama standout and Heisman Trophy winner would lead the franchise to multiple Super Bowls. And yet, Carolina feels further than ever from hoisting a Lombardi Trophy. As he wraps up his rookie campaign, the jury remains out on Young. In 15 games, he’s thrown for 2,783 yards, 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions on 59.7% passing. He has been under duress often, sacked 59 times for a league-leading 451 yards.
The Panthers will have a chance to play spoiler this Sunday, taking on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-8) in the season finale. If the Buccaneers win, they will be crowned NFC South champions. A Panthers win, however, and Tampa Bay will be eliminated from playoff contention.
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