Reports: Panthers cancel morning practice, cite social justice issues

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers canceled practice Saturday morning, citing a push for racial and social justice, sources say.

According to Joe Person from the Athletic, a team spokesperson confirmed the players had a meeting Saturday morning, but would not provide any additional information about the meeting.

Team spokesman confirms team meeting. Says there will be no additional updates, at least officially, today. https://t.co/WucbDuMq02
— Joe Person (@josephperson) August 29, 2020

Assistant director for the Panthers’ digital and broadcasting team Bill Voth said the team practice/scrimmage was scheduled to start around 10 a.m., but the players were not on the field.

Less than 20 minutes later, Voth tweeted practice had been canceled, but initially, the team did not give a reason.

ICYMI: The Carolina Panthers practice scheduled for this morning has been cancelled.

Hearing from a source with knowledge of the discussions, the cancellation is related to the push for racial and social justice. Will update as I learn more...#NFL #KeepPounding
— DaShawn Brown (@DaShawnWSOC9) August 29, 2020

This comes after several professional sports leagues such as the NHL, NBA, WNBA and MLB postponed games in protest of racial injustice following the officer-involved shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin.

Athletes said the moment has forced them to act.

The team spokesperson said there will be no additional information released Saturday.

Check back with wsoctv.com for updates.