Established
1995
City
Charlotte
League History
1995 - Present / National Football League
Team History
1995 - Present / Charlotte Panthers
Nickname
Panthers - For any fan of the NFL, the Carolina Panthers have become one of the most beloved teams in recent years. But did you know that their nickname has an interesting origin story? Let’s take a look at Carolina Panthers History and how this football team got its name.
The Panthers were founded in 1995 and became part of the National Football League (NFL). At first, they didn't have a name or mascot. Still, after much consideration, it was decided to honor Charlotte's rich history by naming them after one of North Carolina's state animals: The Panther.
This decision wasn't made lightly; many people felt strongly about choosing something unique for their new team and wanted to pay homage to local culture and create something memorable for fans all over America. After much debate between various names such as "Revolution," "Thundercats," and even "Dragons," ultimately, it was decided that “Panthers” would be best suited for this exciting new franchise!
Carolina Panthers Origin
While some may think there isn’t anything special about being named after a wild animal, panthers are known to be fierce predators with strength beyond compare – which is why they make perfect mascots for sports teams who want an intimidating presence on game day! Plus, having such an iconic symbol associated with your franchise can help build loyalty among fans who will never forget where their favorite team came from when cheering them on during games or watching highlights afterward - no matter what happens throughout seasons ahead.
The Carolina Panthers' nickname is more than just words, though; it represents pride in both Charlotte's heritage and also serves as a reminder that no matter what obstacles come our way, we can overcome anything if we work together towards common goals - just like these powerful cats do every day out there in nature!. So next time you hear someone mention “the Panthers," don't forget all those things behind why this incredible organization chose such a fitting moniker back then and still proudly wears it today!
Championship
Super Bowl 0
Stadium
1996 - Present / Bank of America Stadium
1995 / Memorial Stadium
Owner
2018 - Present / David Tepper
1995 - 2018 / Jerry Richardson
- 1993
- 1995
- 1996
- 1996
- 2015
-
Carolina Panthers Team Formation
On December 15, 1987, entrepreneur Jerry Richardson announced his bid for an NFL expansion franchise in the Carolinas. A native of North Carolina, Richardson was a former wide receiver on the Baltimore Colts who had used his 1958 league championship bonus to co-found the Hardee’s chain of restaurants and served as president and CEO of TW Services. Richardson drew his ... -
Panther Name and Colors
In choosing the team name, the Richardsons did not run focus groups with potential fans. Their intention had always been the ‘Panthers’; Jerry Richardson began driving a car with the license plate ‘PNTHRS’ near the end of 1989. By the time they had been announced as the 29th NFL team in October 1993, the Panthers’ logo and helmet design had ... -
One Year at Memorial Stadium
The Panthers played their inaugural season at Clemson University’s Memorial Stadium while the new stadium was being completed. The Panthers played their first game at the stadium on September 14, 1996. Frank Howard Field at Clemson Memorial Stadium, popularly known as “Death Valley”, is home to the Clemson Tigers, an NCAA Division I FBS football team, located in Clemson, South ... -
Bank of America Stadium
Bank of America Stadium (formerly known as Carolinas Stadium and Ericsson Stadium) is a 74,455-seat football stadium located on 33 acres (13 ha) of land in uptown Charlotte, North Carolina, USA. It is the home facility of the Carolina Panthers NFL franchise. The largest crowd to ever attend a football game at the stadium was November 18, 2013, when a ... -
14 – 0 Start
Carolina started the season 14–0, not only setting franchise records for the best start and the longest single-season winning streak but also posting the best start to a season by an NFC team since the NFL–AFL merger, breaking the 13–0 record previously shared with the 2009 New Orleans Saints and the aforementioned 2011 Packers. They joined the 1972 Miami Dolphins, ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Carolina Panthers History
The Carolina Panthers history is filled with moments that shaped the franchise into one of the NFL’s most exciting teams. Home to stars like Cam Newton, the Panthers have competed at the highest level since 1995. In just over two decades, they reached the playoffs 11 times and made two Super Bowl appearances, thrilling fans across the league.
The Carolina Panthers origin goes back to October 26, 1993, when Jerry Richardson founded the team. Alongside the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Panthers joined the NFL through an expansion draft. They began play in the 1995 season as part of the NFC West division. After the 2002 realignment, the Panthers moved to the NFC South, where they continue their Carolina Panthers NFL journey today.
In their early years, the Panthers made headlines by advancing quickly. By the 2003 season, head coach John Fox guided the team to its first Super Bowl appearance. They fell short against the New England Patriots but proved they could compete on the league’s biggest stage. This early success cemented their place as a rising franchise.
Carolina Panthers Achievements
The late 2000s brought ups and downs. Signing quarterback Jake Delhomme helped push the team forward, including a playoff run in 2009. However, injuries set the Panthers back, leading to struggles in the following seasons. Cam Newton soon stepped in as quarterback, bringing energy and leadership. His arrival sparked new hope and excitement among fans.
Despite not securing a championship, the Carolina Panthers history includes remarkable achievements. The team has earned multiple NFC South titles, appeared in two Super Bowls (2003 and 2015), and produced iconic players like Steve Smith Sr., Julius Peppers, and DeAngelo Williams. Their resilience and determination continue to define the Carolina Panthers NFL journey, inspiring fans with every season.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
51 / Sam Mills
*Blue is this team’s history
