Panthers Hiring Hero Athletic Trainer to Even Bigger Role for 2025 Season
By Joe Summers
The Carolina Panthers are in the process of revamping several key parts of the roster and coaching staff. There's a strong foundation for this team centered around quarterback Bryce Young and head coach Dave Canales, though it's clear that the team isn't ready to compete with the upper-echelon teams in the NFC.
One of the best ways to turn things around is to poach promising minds from some of the best franchises in the league. Carolina did so in getting Canales from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and now they've reportedly made another move that could pay dividends in 2025.
As Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports, the Panthers hired athletic Denny Kellington from the Buffalo Bills as their VP of Player Health & Performance. For those familiar with Kellington's story, this is a tremendous acquisition for Carolina.
#Bills associate athletic trainer Denny Kellington — who received an MVP vote for his role in saving Damar Hamlin’s life two years ago — has been hired as the #Panthers’ VP of Player Health & Performance, per sources.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 9, 2025
A big hire for Carolina and big opportunity for Kellington. pic.twitter.com/qINu1exJWA
Panthers Hire Denny Kellington as VP of Player Health & Performance
Kellington has been with the Bills since 2017, initially serving as the team's assistant athletic trainer before being promoted in 2023. He actually received an MVP vote two years ago for his role in saving Damar Hamlin's life, earning widespread recognition as one of the most trusted in his field.
Looking at the number of injuries that the Panthers dealt with this year, Kellington's experience can pay immediate dividends. Xavier Legette, Adam Thielen, Jonathon Brooks, Ja'Tavion Sanders, and others all experienced ailments, and the hope is that Kellington can keep the players healthier in 2025 and beyond.
Looking at the landscape of the NFC, there's a legitimate path toward contention for Carolina next season if a few breaks bounce their way. The NFC South is weak and the Panthers have an exciting core that can be built upon in the coming months. If the team can stay healthier than its opponents, there's a real chance that Young could battle for a division title.
There's a long way to go, of course, and injuries are often flukey. Nonetheless, Kellington's expertise provides a boost to a roster in need of it. With a few more decisions like this one, Panthers fans could finally feel excited about their squad moving forward.
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