The Carolina Panthers got their guy. After a busy general manager search, the team announced on Thursday night that they had agreed to terms with Scott Fitterer. Fitterer, who previously served as the Seattle Seahawks’ vice president of football operations, signed a five year deal.
After an initial interview via teleconference on Monday, Fitterer was in Charlotte on Wednesday as the last of the final four candidates and met with head coach Matt Rhule and owner David Tepper.
“We went through a thorough process and it was a great final four,” Tepper said. “We thought Scott was the best fit for the organization.”
In addition to his VP role, Fitterer worked as a co-assistant GM under John Schneider. After his time as a two-sport athlete at both LSU and UCLA, he spent time as a pitcher for the Toronto Blue Jays before beginning his NFL career as a part-time scout for the New York Giants. Fitterer joined the Seahawks in 2001 and worked his way up through the organization. Panthers fans will especially appreciate his part in creating the Seahawks “Legion of Boom” secondary – an area the Panthers have struggled to find depth and consistency in.
“As Seattle’s co-director of player personnel from 2015-19, Fitterer worked with former Panthers‘ staffer Trent Kirchner in directing Seattle’s college scouting and pro personnel departments in acquiring talent and managing the roster. Fitterer was also responsible for evaluating all draft-eligible players nationally and worked closely with Schneider on every aspect of the draft process.
Fitterer helped draft players such as defensive end Frank Clark, wide receiver Tyler Lockett, defensive back Shaquill Griffin, safety Tre Flowers and wide receiver D.K. Metcalf.”
Fitterer succeeds Marty Hurney who was relieved of his duties in December after his second stint. In addition to 2017-2020, Hurney was also the team’s GM from 2002-2012.
