The Carolina Panthers have made a major move in their front office, as owner David Tepper announced on Monday that general manager Scott Fitterer has been fired. The decision comes after the Panthers wrapped up a dismal 2-15 regular season, finishing with the worst record in the NFL.

Tepper stated in a press release, "As we chart a new course for our franchise, I have decided to relieve Scott Fitterer of his duties as general manager. We appreciate his contributions and wish him the best for the future."

Fitterer was hired by the Panthers in 2021, during Matt Rhule's tenure as head coach. However, Rhule was let go in 2022, and Fitterer struggled to find a suitable replacement. Last offseason, he hired Frank Reich as head coach, but after a dismal 1-10 start, Reich was fired in late November.

Fitterer's inability to effectively collaborate with a head coach, coupled with poor roster management, resulted in the Panthers' decision to make significant changes during the upcoming 2024 offseason. Under Fitterer's leadership, the team had a disappointing record of 14-37.

Adding to the disappointment, Carolina does not possess its first-round draft pick for the 2024 NFL Draft. They forfeited the pick in a trade with the Chicago Bears last offseason, in exchange for the opportunity to select Bryce Young with the first overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. Young struggled in his rookie season, completing only 59.8% of his passes and posting a lackluster 73.7 passer rating. Fitterer's decision to select Young over standout rookie C.J. Stroud, the second overall pick, attracted further scrutiny.

The Panthers wasted no time in launching a search for Fitterer's replacement. The team announced that they will begin conducting interviews with head coaching candidates in person on January 22. This will mark the first time since 2002 that Carolina will simultaneously hire a new coach and general manager in the same offseason.

With the firing of Scott Fitterer, the Carolina Panthers are taking proactive steps to revamp their organization and aim for a brighter future. The team is eager to turn their fortunes around and rebuild a competitive team for the upcoming seasons.