Carolina Panthers founder and first-ever team owner Jerry Richardson died at the age of 86 on Wednesday night.
Numerous individuals from the franchise’s past, and some of the present, took to social media on Thursday and honored the man they knew as “Big Cat.” Here, as they continue to pour in, are their tributes:
Charles Johnson
RIP Big Cat. Love ❤️ he was special and the definition of the Panthers 💯
— charles johnson (@randywattson) March 2, 2023
Ron Rivera
Stephanie & I were saddened to learn of the passing of Jerry Richardson. I will always be grateful to him for the opportunity to coach the Carolina Panthers & for his patient, steadfast leadership during 7 seasons. Condolences to Rosalind, Ashley, & Mark and the Richardson family pic.twitter.com/Zibu5hBtbJ
— Ron Rivera (@RiverboatRonHC) March 2, 2023
Greg Olsen
RIP Mr. Richardson ❤️ pic.twitter.com/o27b6O5Czt
— Greg Olsen (@gregolsen88) March 2, 2023
Thomas Davis
Frank Reich
A note from Frank Reich pic.twitter.com/oa5wr0uCz8
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) March 2, 2023
Jonathan Stewart
We lost a Good one today! Rest in peace Jerry Richardson. Thankful that he Bet on me!
— Jonathan Stewart (@Jonathanstewar1) March 2, 2023
Steve Smith Sr.
You taught me a lot. You will be missed.
When I loss my grandfather, you filled that role and I’m appreciative for that.
RIP Big Cat 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/4NpxcMRFJj
— Steve Smith Sr. (@SteveSmithSr89) March 2, 2023
Dom Capers
A thought from Dom Capers pic.twitter.com/FqmZxoG0OR
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) March 2, 2023
Cam Newton
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-1ØVĒ🤟🏾 pic.twitter.com/pI4HYAMlSy— Cameron 1 Newton (@CameronNewton) March 3, 2023
