Adam Thielen Rips Panthers' Facilities During OTAs

The Panthers are wrapping up the final portion of their optional OTAs (offseason team activities) with big expectations for a bounce-back season, though WR Adam Thielen admitted the organization's facilities aren't quite up to par.

Thielen, who spent the first nine years of his career with the Minnesota Vikings before joining Carolina last offseason, put up 1,014 receiving yards as the team's leading wideout. He's expected to help mentor first-round pick Xavier Legette, though apparently hopes on-field success will lead to upgrades in the building.

Speaking to local media via Zoom, Thielen told reporters that the Panthers are "a little bit behind as far as facilities."

Adam Thielen Says Panthers Have Worst Facilities in NFL

"We probably have the worst facilities in the NFL right now, and I don’t think there is anybody who would argue that," said Thielen. "But at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter. You gotta go play football, and you gotta go win games."

He noted that Carolina seems to be incentivizing players, promising upgrades in exchange for solid play. "It’s nice to hear that, the commitment to us as players and the coaching staff," Thielen continued. "‘Hey, you guys are putting the work in, and we’re going to commit and provide you guys with better facilities and really give you the resources to go out there and win.’ So it’s exciting.”

The Panthers hope to improve on a disastrous 2-15 campaign last year but overhauled the offense and should have a much better supporting cast for 2023 first-overall pick Bryce Young.

Thielen doesn't sound too upset about the situation, though it does become harder to attract marquee free agents without quality facilities and support for players.

Carolina is awaiting a vote from Charlotte City Council to potentially receive up to $650 million to help renovate Bank of America Stadium, some of which would be used to upgrade the facilities. For Thielen's sake, here's hoping those upgrades come sooner rather than later.

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