Panthers GM rumors begin with potential replacements for Dave Gettleman

Jerry Richardson has a tough task ahead of him. He has to replace recently fired General Manager Dave Gettleman with someone who won’t completely destroy the foundation of a winning team Gettleman built during is four-year tenure with the Panthers.

Choosing a replacement is always difficult, but here are a few names that Richardson could consider when trying to fill the void left by Gettleman’s untimely exit.

Names to watch out for

Trent Kirchner, Seattle Seahawks Co-Director of Player Personnel

Kirchner would be an interesting hire since he has a history with the Panthers. He was considered for the 49ers’ GM job before they ultimately went with former Buccaneers and Broncos safety John Lynch.

The respected personnel man has 17 years of experience in the NFL. Kirchner’s career began in 2000 as a scouting intern for the Seahawks He then spent one year in Washington as a college scouting coordinator before joining the Carolina Panthers in 2002. Kirchner spent eight seasons with the Panthers as a pro personnel scout until 2009. ... Kirchner played a role in Carolina’s selections of linebacker Thomas Davis and pass-rusher Julius Peppers. Upon joining the Seahawks, he deserves credit for Seattle’s decision to draft quarterback Russell Wilson, linebacker Bobby Wagner and cornerback Richard Sherman.

Ryan Cowden, Tennessee Titans Director of Player Personnel

Cowden recently interviewed with the Chiefs for their GM opening, so he could be high on Richardson’s list of candidates to consider. He also has a history in Carolina where he spent 16 years as a scout.

Here’s a recap of his time in Carolina:

In Carolina, Cowden last held the title of Assistant Director of College Scouting, a position he held for two years. Prior to his current role, he served as the team’s National Scout/Senior College Scout for two years (2012-14) and was a national scout for the Panthers for the five previous seasons (2008-12). He originally joined the Carolina franchise as a scouting assistant in 2000. He became an area scout in 2001, and was responsible for the southeast area from 2001-07. In his time with the Panthers, the franchise won two NFC titles, five division crowns and advanced to the playoffs six times.

Less likely, but still possible

Nick Caserio, New England Patriots Director of Player Personnel

The Patriots are one of the best-run franchises in the NFL and have the Lombardi trophies to prove it. It would be prudent to take someone from their personnel staff if you want to continue trying to build a winning team.

Here’s a little more info on Caserio:

In Caserio's 16 seasons with the club, the Patriots have qualified for the Super Bowl seven times with five wins, captured 14 AFC East crowns and qualified for the playoffs in every year except in 2002 and 2008. Caserio has been instrumental in drafting, signing and developing players who have become cornerstones of one of the most successful NFL franchises of all time. In addition to his time in the player personnel department, Caserio returned to the field in 2007 to coach the wide receivers, a season in which the offense broke many NFL records en route to an undefeated regular season.

Yeah, we should probably consider this guy. Just saying.

Terry McDonough, Arizona Cardinals Vice President of Player Personnel

I don’t know if he will be on Richardson’s radar, but McDonough interviewed twice with the 49ers before they ultimately hired John Lynch. He’s been with Arizona since 2013 and is responsible for helping them rebuild into a perennial NFC West contender.

Highly unlikely, but worth mentioning

John Dorsey, former Kansas City Chiefs GM

Considering the reason for Dorsey’s departure from Kansas City was “fueled, in part, by concerns about his internal communication and management styles”, he’s probably not very high on Richardson’s list of candidates to hire. Otherwise, there would have been no reason to fire Gettleman in the first place. Crazier things have happened, but this is one name I wouldn’t seriously consider as a legit option.

Eric DeCosta, Baltimore Ravens Assistant GM

He’s probably not leaving Baltimore since he’s had plenty of opportunities to do so and has turned them all down. He seems to enjoy being their GM in waiting behind Ozzie Newsome. He would be a great fit, but he’s probably not leaving Baltimore.

Marty Hurney, former Carolina Panthers GM

LOL, just kidding. Couldn’t resist though.

Who would you like to see as Gettleman’s replacement? Sound off with your thoughts in the comments!