NFL fines Panthers owner David Tepper $300,000 for throwing drink on Jaguars fan
The NFL has fined Carolina Panthers (2-14) owner David Tepper $300,000 for his “unacceptable conduct” during the 26-0 Week 17 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars (9-7) Sunday at EverBank Stadium, per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Tepper was videoed throwing a drink on a Jaguars fan out of the window of the suite he was in.
“I am deeply passionate about this team and regret my behavior on Sunday,” Tepper said in a statement. “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.”
The incident appeared to occur after quarterback Bryce Young threw an interception late in the fourth quarter. Minutes later, 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.
David Tepper, Panthers having miserable season
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.
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Young showed his frustration at the lack of a clean pocket Sunday, throwing a tablet on the sideline at one point during the game. Young was sacked six times total against Jacksonville.
“[Jaguars] have a really good front, really good scheme. Definitely respect them. But it’s a group effort,” Young said. “I could do a better job of getting the ball out quicker, more effective communication, making the right calls to put us in the best situations, to put everyone up front in the best situations so we’re going to the right ball.”
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.