Over the weekend, it was confirmed that the Carolina Panthers and Adrian Wilson had quietly parted ways. There was no official announcement from the team; however, keen observations found that the former NFL executive no longer appeared on the team website. Wilson spent 12 years with the Arizona Cardinals as a safety and was named to the team’s Ring of Honor. Following his playing career, the High Point, NC native served as a regional scout with the Cardinals in 2015 and was promoted to director of pro scouting in 2019. After Steve Keim was fired in 2022, Wilson was named interim co-General Manager for the remainder of the season.
Wilson joined the Panthers in February of 2023 as Vice President of player personnel. It was a homecoming of sorts as the 5-time Pro Bowler had played his college ball at NC State University. His seemingly sudden departure marked the latest in a number of short-term tenures under Tepper Sports and Entertainment and the team’s vague explanation did little to quell public perception as just anther Tepper fumble.
“Adrian Wilson will not continue in his position as Vice President of Player Personnel for the Carolina Panthers,” a team spokesperson disclosed to PFT on Sunday. “Consistent with organizational policy on employee matters, we will have no further comment.”
Reports have surfaced on Tuesday afternoon, however, that may add insight on the move. According to the Scottsdale Police Department, Wilson was arrested on three domestic violence charges. While the date of the arrest has not been provided, he posted bail on June 1. From ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss:
“Wilson, 44, was charged with intentional assault causing physical injury, damaging property between $250 and $2,000, and disorderly conduct-disruptive behavior or fighting, according to police records.”
Wilson’s next court date is July 16th for a virtual case management conference.”
