Carolina Panthers wide receiver Adam Thielen recently commented on the subpar state of the team’s facilities ahead of a planned $800 million renovation of Bank of America Stadium.
“I think they’re behind a little bit as far as facilities,” Thielen said during a Monday Zoom call, according to Alex Zietlow of the Charlotte Observer. “We probably have the worst facilities in the NFL right now, and I don’t think there is anybody who would argue that. But at the end of the day, it doesn’t matter. You gotta go play football and win games.”
Despite the current state, Thielen expressed optimism about the upcoming improvements. “It’s nice to hear the commitment to us as players and the coaching staff. They’re going to provide better facilities and give us the resources to win,” he added.
Thielen’s remarks followed the unveiling of the stadium renovation plans by Panthers ownership. The project will be funded with $150 million from Tepper Sports & Entertainment and $650 million in taxpayer money, derived from existing hospitality and tourism taxes.
The delays in renovations were partly due to a failed plan to build a new practice facility in Rock Hill, which fell through in 2022 due to financial disputes. Thielen acknowledged the setback but welcomed the renewed commitment to enhancing facilities.
The Charlotte City Council is set to discuss funding allocation for the stadium renovation and signing a 20-year non-relocation agreement with the Panthers and Charlotte FC on June 24. This would mark the stadium’s first significant renovation since its opening in 1996, reported David Newton for ESPN.
Additionally, Charlotte’s Zoning Committee will vote on rezoning 12 acres of land adjacent to the stadium for expanded practice facilities, including an indoor field house capable of hosting up to 5,000 people. Construction on the field house is expected to begin after this summer’s training camp if approved.
The Panthers have already started expanding practice facilities to host training camp in Charlotte for the first time in 28 years. Thielen praised the new outdoor field as “probably the best I’ve ever been on.”
The stadium renovations are slated to occur between 2025 and 2029, while the field house could take up to two years to complete.
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