With Sunday's news of Carolina Panthers owner Jerry Richardson looking to sell the team amid widespread allegations and an ensuing investigation for sexual and racial misconduct, the future of a team on the verge of making the playoffs is suddenly in jeopardy.
Head coach Ron Rivera is hopeful the Panthers will be able to stay put following any potential sale.
"This organization has had a tremendous impact on the Carolinas,'' Rivera said, according to David Newton of ESPN. "It has helped the growth of this city and this community. It's been a source of pride and goodwill. I'd like to see it continue.
"This is a great community, a very supportive fan base that's been out there for us. I hope that, somehow, it's able to stay here.''
While acknowledging the seriousness of the allegations against Richardson, Rivera said he needs to keep the focus on football with the Panthers holding a record of 10-4 and vying for the NFC South title.
"Not to discount the serious nature of these allegations (but) for us, for what we do, we're here to play football,'' he said. "It's important that we remember that. These allegations don't change what we do. So we've got to go out and focus on getting ready for Tampa Bay.''
