NFL Rumors: Panthers DE Greg Hardy to be deactivated for Week 2?

Likely feeling pressure in the aftermath of Ray Rice’s indefinite suspension–and public/media backlash–Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk reports the Carolina Panthers are contemplating on the decision to suspended Panthers defensive end Greg Hardy for today’s matchup against the Detroit Lions.

Like Ray Rice, Hardy was arrested for assaulting his girlfriend, but unlike Rice, Hardy was actually convicted of his crime by the courts, sentenced to 18 months of probation–Hardy has since appealed, pushing the jury trial to November 17th.

More from Carolina Panthers

• NFL rumors: Eagles RB1 hint, Bryce Young shows out, C.J. Stroud slow play
• NFL Power Rankings: Who is the best quarterback in each division?
• Carolina Panthers RB has a truly wild Andy Dalton take
• NFL Power Rankings: Which teams will have the best rushing attacks this season?
• Bryce Young has one fiery obstacle in the way of his starting job

Here is an excerpt from Hardy’s girlfriends description of the incident:

"Hardy pulled me from the tub by my hair, screaming at me that he was going to kill me, break my arms and other threats that I completely believe. He drug me across the bathroom and out into the bedroom. Hardy choked me with both hands around my throat while I was lying on the floor. Hardy picked me up over his head and threw me onto a couch covered in assault rifles and/or shotguns. I landed on those weapons."

And like the Baltimore Ravens initially, the Carolina Panthers failed to discipline the defensive end, which has led to a spotlight of attention following the mismanagement of Ray Rice’s situation.

This is nothing but damage control from the Panthers if they choose to suspend Hardy. Convicted months ago, the Panthers brass has has ample time to handle this situation, but now that the league is under fire, they feel the need to address the situation.

It’s going to be interesting seeing what reaction this’ll draw if Hardy is definitely suspended.