Olsen states it was Richardson's sole decision to fire GM Gettleman

Carolina Panthers tight end Greg Olsen balked at the suggestion that he had anything to do with general manager Dave Gettleman's firing.

Gettleman was dismissed Monday and was replaced by Marty Hurney, who previously served as the Panthers' GM from 2002-12. Hurney will be operating on an interim basis.

Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis - who was also suggested to have played a part in Gettleman's firing - said Tuesday that it was unfair to lay blame on him and Olsen, because they were negotiating new contracts. Olsen echoed that sentiment Thursday, placing the responsibility on owner Jerry Richardson.

"I think anyone who follows the Panthers, and knows our history, knows the guy in charge, that's Mr. Richardson, and he makes all the decisions," Olsen said, via Jourdan Rodrigue of the Charlotte Observer. "And he made a decision, with probably some parts that we aren't privy to. He made a decision that he felt was in the best interest of the team, both in the short and long term. And those are the decisions that as players and employees of the organization we live with. Sometimes that's just the way it goes."

Olsen and the Panthers will need to move on harmoniously, with training camp scheduled for next week.