Carolina Panthers veteran tight end Greg Olsen and the franchise have mutually parted ways, according to a statement released by the team.
In part, Olsen said, “The team and I are both on the same page that it is best we go in different directions for now.”
He continued, “Regardless of what path we choose, I will always be a Carolina Panther.”
Olsen has been in the NFL for 13 seasons, playing the first four with the Chicago Bears and the last nine with the Panthers.
Olsen ranks fifth all-time among NFL tight ends in both catches and yards, with 718 and 8,444, respectively. He is the franchise’s all-time leading tight end in receiving yards, receptions, and 100-yard receiving games. Olsen is behind only Wesley Walls in receiving touchdowns and third all-time in receiving yards and receptions.
Olsen earned the nickname “Mr. Reliable” as he became Cam Newton’s go-to target for five years and became the first tight end in NFL history to record three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons as well as being voted to three Pro Bowls.
Olsen was twice nominated as a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award and he and his wife established the HEARTest Yard Program to provide services and support for families who had children like his own, born with severe congenital heart defects.
Owner David Tepper spoke of Olsen, saying he was “a leader, great teammate, unbelievable family man and a true professional.” Tepper went on to state that Olsen will be remembered as one of the best Panthers to play on the team.
Olsen will not only be remembered for his actions on the field for the Panthers but also off the field thanks to he and his wife’s contributions to the Charlotte community. Olsen and his wife, Kara, feel the same about the Panthers and the team’s fan base.
Speaking on his time on the field and off the field, Olsen stated, “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.”
It isn’t clear what the 34-year-old tight end plans next in his NFL career, but he will always be remembered and honored in Charlotte.
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— Greg Olsen (@gregolsen88) January 30, 2020
