Under Gettleman's management, the Panthers experienced a period of competitive success. One of the highlights of his career with the Panthers was the 2015 season when the team achieved a 15-1 record, ultimately advancing to Super Bowl 50. Although the Panthers were defeated by the Denver Broncos, the season was a testament to the strong team that had been assembled under Gettleman's guidance. His approach often involved a focus on building a strong defensive line and ensuring depth across the roster.
Despite the successes, Gettleman's tenure with the Panthers was not without controversy. He was known for making tough decisions, including releasing popular veteran players such as wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. and running back DeAngelo Williams. These moves were sometimes met with criticism from fans and players alike. In 2017, Gettleman was unexpectedly relieved of his duties by the Panthers, a decision that surprised many in the football community.
Following his departure from the Panthers, Gettleman was hired as the general manager of the New York Giants in December 2017. His role with the Giants involved similar responsibilities, including rebuilding a team that had struggled in the years prior to his arrival. Gettleman's strategy with the Giants included a focus on the NFL Draft, where he made several high-profile selections. Notably, he drafted running back Saquon Barkley with the second overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, a decision that was both praised for Barkley's talent and critiqued due to the positional value of running backs in the modern NFL.
Gettleman's time with the Giants was marked by efforts to revitalize the team's roster and return the franchise to playoff contention. However, the team faced challenges, including injuries to key players and inconsistent performances. Throughout his tenure, Gettleman made several trades and free-agent signings aimed at strengthening the team's core, though the results were mixed.
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