Goodell: Richardson progressing well

CHARLOTTE, N.C.(AP) -- NFL commissioner Roger Goodell made a prediction on Tuesday after visiting with Jerry Richardson for the first time since the Carolina Panthers owner underwent a heart transplant.

"I think the Big Cat will be roaring pretty quick," Goodell said, referring to Richardson's nickname within the franchise.

Goodell spent about an hour with Richardson at his home before the commissioner spoke at the Charlotte Touchdown Club's luncheon. The 72-year-old Richardson has been resting at home for three months since he was released from the hospital following the transplant surgery on Super Bowl Sunday.

"He's pretty focused on issues that are facing the league and facing the Panthers," Goodell said. "I know he's grateful for the kind of support that he's gotten from everybody in this community."

Richardson, a former teammate of Johnny Unitas with the Baltimore Colts, had a history of heart trouble and underwent quadruple-bypass surgery in 2002. He had a pacemaker installed last year, but he continued to feel ill from congestive heart failure and was placed on the transplant waiting list in December.

The surgery was a success and Goodell said Richardson is gaining strength.

"He looks trim and he's making progress," Goodell said.

Richardson's sons, Mark and Jon, have run the team in his absence and will represent the Panthers at next week's owners meetings.

"One of the great things about leadership is when you're not there you're franchise and your organization continue to operate effectively," Goodell said. "And that's a hallmark of Jerry Richardson."

 

Honestly, through the offseason, I'd almost forgotten there was an issue. Take it for granted, I guess. Great that the league is communicating on it.

I wonder what impact the younger Richardsons have had on the offseason?

 

I have heard rumors of Marks indiscretions and wondered what kind of owner he'd be later on. What's your feelings on him?

 

I have a feeling that the sons have had more control over the team and for a lot longer than most of us want to realize.

 

average, just like the team.

 

When you are in a market where George Shinn once roamed average is pretty darn good.

 

8-8?

 

Well, that's better then our "average" of 7-9. As long as all 8 wins are home games, I could live with it though not happily. Just not suicidal.

Glad to hear Big Cat is doing well.