Michael Oher Voices Support for Ex-Panthers GM Dave Gettleman, Rips Team Execs

Following the Carolina Panthers' firing of general manager Dave Gettleman on Monday, offensive tackle Michael Oher posted a message on Instagram supporting the ousted GM.

As seen in the following post, Oher praised Gettleman for caring about his well-being during a lengthy bout with concussion-like symptoms:

Oher missed all but three games last season due to a concussion, and he has yet to be cleared to return to football activities.

Gettleman's firing came at an unusual time with training camp on the horizon, marking the latest in the offseason a general manager has ever been relieved of his duties.

The Panthers didn't provide much reasoning for the decision beyond a statement from owner Jerry Richardson, per ESPN.com's David Newton:

"After much thought and a long evaluation of our football operations, I have decided to relieve Dave Gettleman of his duties as general manager. I want to thank Dave for the role he played in our success over the past four seasons. While the timing of this decision is not ideal, a change is needed."

Following the announcement of Gettleman's firing, some former Panthers players expressed joy on Twitter.

Among them was free-agent running back DeAngelo Williams:

Retired wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. also chimed in:

Gettleman had served as Carolina's general manager since 2013, and was part of some controversial moves, including cutting ties with Smith and now-Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman.

He signed Oher prior to the 2015 season, and the former Baltimore Ravens and Tennessee Titans tackle was a key part of a Carolina offensive line that helped lead the Panthers to the Super Bowl.

After going 15-1 during the 2015 regular season, however, the Panthers bottomed out last season, finishing 6-10 and missing the playoffs.