CONGRATULATIONS: Carolina Panthers Owners Officially Announce Steve Smith Sr.’s Triumphant Return as General Manager in 2025, Teaming Up with Head Coach Dave Canales for a Bold New Era
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — May 31, 2025
In a move that has sent shockwaves of excitement through the Carolinas and across the NFL, the Carolina Panthers have officially named franchise legend Steve Smith Sr. as the team’s new General Manager. The announcement was made Friday morning at a press conference at Bank of America Stadium, where Panthers owner David Tepper welcomed Smith back to the organization — this time, not in pads and cleats, but in a suit and tie, ready to lead the team from the front office.
This marks a triumphant homecoming for Smith, who spent 13 of his 16 NFL seasons with the Panthers, earning five Pro Bowl selections and becoming the team’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. Known for his fiery personality, relentless work ethic, and unmatched competitiveness, Smith returns to Charlotte with a new mission: to build a championship team from the top down.
“It’s emotional, man. This city means everything to me,” Smith said at the press conference. “I gave my heart to the Panthers on the field, and now I get to do the same in this new role. I’m here to bring back that edge, that identity. We’re going to be tough, smart, and hungry.”
Smith will be teaming up with recently hired Head Coach Dave Canales, who joined the Panthers earlier this year following a promising stint as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Canales, known for his innovative offensive schemes and ability to develop young quarterbacks, brings a fresh perspective to a team in transition.
“Working with Steve is a dream,” Canales said. “He understands the game at every level. He’s a leader, a motivator, and someone who knows what it takes to win. We’re both about culture, discipline, and accountability — and we’re going to instill that from day one.”
The hire is widely seen as a bold and energizing move by the Panthers’ ownership, who have faced mounting pressure from fans after several losing seasons and a carousel of head coaches and front office changes. With Smith now at the helm, the organization is signaling a return to its roots — and to its long-lost swagger.
The announcement has already electrified Panthers Nation. Fans flooded social media with celebratory messages, hailing the decision as a return to the “Keep Pounding” spirit that defined the team during Smith’s playing days. Jerseys with “Smith Sr.” began trending again in sales overnight, while former teammates and NFL personalities offered their praise.
Former Panthers quarterback Jake Delhomme, who shared some of the team’s most iconic moments with Smith, said, “This is the best decision the Panthers have made in a long time. Steve knows football. He knows people. He’s a game-changer — on and off the field.”
Smith’s leadership will be crucial as the Panthers look to rebuild and compete in a tough NFC South. With a young quarterback in Bryce Young and a developing roster, his ability to scout talent, set the tone culturally, and make bold decisions will shape the team’s trajectory for years to come.
When asked about his vision, Smith didn’t hesitate: “I want a team that reflects the city of Charlotte — resilient, proud, and ready to fight for every inch. We’re going to draft tough. We’re going to play tough. And we’re going to win.”
The Smith-Canales era has officially begun in Carolina, and if Friday’s announcement is any indication, the Panthers are ready to rise again — with a familiar face leading the charge.
