Panthers GM blasts media for focusing on Benjamin's weight

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin reported to offseason workouts overweight in April, but general manager Dave Gettleman believes it's a non-story.

Benjamin reportedly showed up weighing in at 280 pounds and head coach Ron Rivera said the receiver was a "little heavy" but later praised his efforts for working himself back into shape in May.

While many outlets speculate whether Benjamin will be ready for the upcoming season, Gettleman grew livid with the media's coverage of the 26-year-old.

"This is what frustrates me with the media today," Gettleman said via the Panthers' official website. "They go to DEFCON 5 on everything.

"Kelvin Benjamin being overweight was not a big deal. It was April 17. Can we all get a grip?"

Benjamin is expected to be a focal point of the Panthers' offense in 2017 after recording 63 receptions for 941 yards and seven touchdowns last season. After a rocky start to the offseason, Benjamin appears to have the full confidence of both his head coach and general manager as the Panthers seek to forget about a dismal 2016 campaign.