Just 2 weeks after Line Backer Luke Kuechly announced his sudden retirement from the Panthers, another franchise hero is following suit.
In a statement posted to his social media pages, one of the greatest Tight Ends in the NFL announced he will be stepping down from his role with the Carolina Panthers;
“Today, I had the opportunity to sit down with (general manager) Marty Hurney and have a great conversation regarding my future with the organization. The team and I are both on the same page that it is best we go in different directions for now. On the field, I will always cherish the nine seasons we shared together. The wins, the losses, standing at midfield holding the Halas Trophy as NFC champs. The reality of going to the Super Bowl was beyond words, as was the disappointment of falling short.
Off the field is where my family felt the warmest embrace. In 2012, upon the news breaking regarding the challenges our son would face, the entire Carolina community wrapped their arms around us in support. My wife Kara and I will be forever grateful for the love and prayers shared with us since that time.
Regardless of what path we choose, I will always be a Carolina Panther.”
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— Greg Olsen (@gregolsen88) January 30, 2020
Last night, the Panthers posted a simple but heartfelt message – “Thank you, Mr. Reliable”
Greg Olsen was traded to the Carolina Panthers just before the 2011 season after being drafted in 2007 and spending his first 4 seasons with the Chicago Bears.
During his 13 seasons, he racked up a total of 718 catches and 8,444 yards, which ranks him as the 5th best Tight End to ever play for the NFL.
During his time with the Panthers, he became the first TE in history to put up 3 1,000-yard seasons in a row and was voted to the Pro Bowl 3 times. He’s currently the Panthers all-time leading TE for receiving yards (6,463), receptions (524) and 100-yard receiving games (10).
Thank’s for all you have done for our team and our city – we’ll miss you Greg!