The Carolina Panthers have unexpectedly let go of their former vice president of player personnel, Adrian Wilson, after just one year in the role. The decision was confirmed by the Panthers to Pro Football Talk, following Wilson’s removal from the team’s website. This move comes shortly after Cole Spencer, who has been with the Panthers since 2021, was promoted from college scouting director to director of player personnel.
A spokesperson for the Panthers stated, “Adrian Wilson will no longer serve as Vice President of Player Personnel for the Carolina Panthers,” adding that they would not comment further in line with their organizational policy on employee matters.
Wilson had assumed the position in February 2023, having previously spent time with the Arizona Cardinals as director of pro scouting and vice president of pro scouting. In 2022, he temporarily served as co-general manager of the Cardinals after Steve Keim’s departure.
Wilson, 44, had a distinguished NFL career as a safety from 2001 to 2012, all with the Arizona Cardinals. He earned five Pro Bowl selections and was named an All-Pro in 2009, playing a key role in the Cardinals’ appearance in Super Bowl XLIII. He was honored with induction into the Cardinals Ring of Honor in 2015.
Under owner David Tepper’s leadership since 2018, the Panthers have seen significant turnover, including the dismissal of three head coaches mid-season, most recently Frank Reich last year after a 1-10 start. The team’s record stands at 31-68 under Tepper, with no playoff appearances to date.
Tepper is banking on recent hires such as president of football operations/general manager Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales to bring about a new era of success for the Panthers.
