The Panthers released a statement on Thursday saying that they “are continuing to monitor events” in Charlotte after two nights of violence in the city following Tuesday’s police shooting of Keith Scott.
With law enforcement dedicated to trying to keep the situation from getting worse, there’s a concern that Sunday’s Panthers-Vikings game at Bank of America Stadium could divert resources needed elsewhere. The NFL released a statement via spokesman Brian McCarthy on Thursday saying that the plan is still to play the game as scheduled.
“We are planning to play the game as scheduled on Sunday. We are monitoring events in Charlotte and have been in communication with local officials and authorities, and both the Carolina Panthers and the Minnesota Vikings.”
That plan may have to change if another night of violence makes it clear that ensuring safety for all in Charlotte has to take precedence over the NFL’s schedule.