text: On the evening of December 15, the Panthers announced they were undergoing an internal investigation of Richardson for what was termed "workplace misconduct". The NFL announced they were taking over the investigation on Sunday. A few hours later, the Panthers beat the Packers 31–24, intercepting Packers QB Aaron Rodgers three times. Sports Illustrated then published a lengthy article detailing Richardson's multiple workplace allegations, including sexual harassment and racial allegations. A couple hours after the Panthers-Packers game ended, Richardson issued a statement announcing he was putting the team up for sale at the end of the season. The statement made no mention of the SI article. On Monday, December 18, the Panthers announced Richardson was giving up control of the team to Panthers executive Tina Becker.
  The Panthers had a chance to win the NFC South in week 17, however, a loss to Atlanta gave the Saints the division title. They finished the regular season 11-5 and made the playoffs. In addition, three Panthers were selected to the All-Pro team (Luke Kuechly, Andrew Norwell, and Daryl Williams). Kuechly, at the time, was the lone Panther voted to the Pro Bowl. In the playoffs, the Panthers season came to an end as they lost to the Saints in the wild-card round 31–26. Graham Gano, Thomas Davis, and Trai Turner (all alternates) later joined Kuechly as Pro Bowl selections.
  2018 season: Under New Ownership
  After Jerry Richardson's shocking announcement on December 17, 2017, the Panthers entered 2018 up for sale. The team signed Rivera to a contract extension before the 2017 season ended, keeping him under contract until 2020.