Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs wants to purchase Carolina Panthers and vows to hire Colin Kaepernick
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (UPI) — Music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs announced his desire to buy the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. He also pledged to sign Colin Kaepernick.
Diddy posted a video on multiple social media accounts, announcing his grand plans.
“Ok y’all, this just in,” Diddy said in the video. “Breaking news: The North Carolina Panthers are up for sale. ‘I believe its time to turn the franchise over to new ownership.'”
“Well I need to send a message out to everybody in the beautiful state of North Carolina: I will be the best NFL owner that you can imagine. I will immediately address the Colin Kaepernick situation, and put him in the running for next year’s starting quarterback. It’s just competition baby. It’s just competition. But also, I will have the best halftime show, the best selection of music, and we will win Super Bowl after Super Bowl.”
The video has been watched more than 630,000 times on Instagram and more than 136,000 times on Facebook. Diddy filmed the video while panning the camera to an article on Panthers.com.
One problem with Diddy’s grand plans? The Panthers already have a starting quarterback. Cam Newton was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 Draft. He owns a 61-44-1 record in seven seasons as the Panthers’ quarterback. He is a three-time Pro Bowler and won the 2015 NFL MVP award.
Panthers owner and founder Jerry Richardson announced that he was putting the franchise up for sale on Sunday. The news came after the team announced on Dec. 15 that it was conducting an internal investigation “into allegations of workplace misconduct against” Richardson. The investigation was led by the international law firm Quinn Emanuel Urquhart and Sullivan, LLP, and overseen by limited owner and former White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles.
“There has been no greater mission or purpose in my life than to have brought an NFL franchise to Charlotte,” Richardson wrote in his letter Sunday on the team website. “The obstacles back then were significant and some even questioned whether or community could or would support professional football. But I always knew that if given the chance the Carolina would rise to the occasion.””And you have. The team has become an integral part of the community. The stadium is in its best condition since the day it opened. And we have played in two Super Bowls.”“Football is also an integral part of my life — and I am blessed, every day, that I made The Carolinas my home. I can never repay all of you for the kindness and generosity you have shown me, Rosalind, and my family for more than two decades. We have the best fans in football — and I truly mean that. In my opinion, we also have the best organization, and they have served us well.”
“I believe that it is time to turn the franchise over to new ownership. Therefore, I will put the team up for sale at the conclusion of this NFL season. We will not begin the sale process, nor will we entertain any inquiries, until the very last game is played. I hope everyone in this organization, both on and off the field, will be firmly focused on just one mission: to play and win the Super Bowl.”
“While I will no longer be the team owner, I will always be the Panthers’ Number One fan.” “With respect. Always.”
“Jerry Richardson.”
Diddy’s plans were met with excitement in the sports world and entertainment industry. Golden State Warriors superstar – and Charlotte native – Stephen Curry said “I want in,” in response to the announcement.
“Holla at me, let’s get it!” Diddy responded.
Diddy also tweeted several times about his desire to buy the franchise.
“I would like to buy the @Panthers,” he wrote. “Spread the word. Retweet!”
“There are no majority African American NFL owners. “Let’s make history.”
He also posted a photo of himself wearing a Panthers jersey at a game in 2003.
“This picture was taken back in 2003,” Diddy tweeted. “This is God’s work. It’s time!! ATTN all @NFL owners, it’s time for diversity!! It’s time for Black ownership!!” The time is now. Let’s make it happen!!”
Diddy performed at halftime for Super Bowl XXXVIII between the Panthers and New England Patriots. The Panthers are valued at $2.3 billion, according to Forbes. Diddy has a net worth of $820 million, according to the site.
The Panthers are 182-183-1 during Richardson’s tenure. The franchise has made two Super Bowl appearances and owns a 9-7 playoff record. The Panthers have had four different head coaches since 1998.
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