- Greg Olsen will be honored as the Panthers’ “Legend of the Game” Sunday against the Buccaneers.
- The former All-Pro tight end, now a broadcaster, will hit the Keep Pounding drum and watch the game with his sons.
- Olsen joined Carolina in 2011, helped the team reach the Super Bowl after the 2015 season and made three straight Pro Bowls.
Olsen returns to Bank of America Stadium
Greg Olsen, one of the most decorated tight ends in Carolina Panthers history, returns to Bank of America Stadium this Sunday as the club’s “Legend of the Game.” After calling a Saturday FOX game, Olsen will be in the stands with his two sons and will perform the Keep Pounding drum ceremony heading into the fourth quarter.
From impact trade to Pro Bowl seasons
Olsen arrived in Carolina in 2011 via a trade from Chicago that has been widely regarded as one of the most consequential in franchise history. He became the first tight end in NFL history to record 1,000 receiving yards in three consecutive seasons and earned three straight Pro Bowl selections. His leadership and reliable hands were central to the Panthers’ run to the Super Bowl following the 15-1 2015 season.
What the day means to Olsen
“I haven’t been to a game in a long time just as a fan,” Olsen said when reflecting on returning to Charlotte. He called the timing perfect — after a Saturday broadcast and with an off-Sunday that allows him to bring his sons to experience a big home game. Olsen described the day as a chance to reconnect with people and memories that matter to him.
On the current Panthers
Transitioning to his broadcaster perspective, Olsen praised the current staff and roster. He singled out coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan for building momentum through smart free agent moves and draft picks. Olsen also noted Bryce Young’s strong play and the team’s ability to win critical games against top opponents.
Memory lane: big moments in Panther history
Olsen revisited key moments from his playing career — the playoff wins, the NFC Championship run in 2015, and memorable home victories against elite teams. He recalled the atmosphere at a full Bank of America Stadium as “second to none” when the Panthers were rolling, and said this Sunday could be the most anticipated home game in years.
Keeping traditions alive
Hitting the Keep Pounding drum is a family tradition for Olsen. His son TJ famously struck the drum in 2021 after a successful heart transplant and has been central to the Olsen family’s charitable work through The Heartest Yard foundation. For Greg Olsen, participating in the ceremony again ties together his playing legacy, family journey and community ties.
Sunday’s designation as Legend of the Game honors Olsen’s impact on the Panthers and gives fans a chance to celebrate a player who helped define a golden era in Carolina football.
Image Referance: https://www.panthers.com/news/legend-of-the-game-greg-olsen