TIME recently made the decision to recognize David Tepper in the second-annual 2026 TIME 100 Philanthropy list. The Carolina Panthers' owner contributed more than half a million dollars last year on paper, but the fans are not happy with the decision.

"Last year, David Tepper contributed more than $529M to his three giving vehicles, with causes including anti-semitism, food insecurity, and disaster relief among others," posted NFL's Ian Rapoport on X.

In 2023, the Tepper Foundation created a fund to strengthen security at colleges, synagogues, and other Jewish organizations.

This was done as a way to counter antisemitism. Worried about these realities, Tepper chose to open this fund.

Last week, the David and Nicole Tepper Foundation announced a $1 million grant to girls' flag football teams across the Carolinas. Back in March, the foundation gave $250,000 to UNC Charlotte to support the 49ers’ women's student-athletes.

"We’re radical centrists. We want to do what’s good for the country," Tepper had said

While the NFL recognised his efforts over decades, especially last year, the fans had a different take on things.

NFL Fans Express Their Feelings on David Tepper's Announcement

David Tepper's recognition isn't getting the love from the fans.

"Sooooo instead of paying people enough to live comfortable lives, we’re lauding people that are ripping off people so hard to give a pittance of that to “causes they believe in.” Give me a break lol," wrote one fan.

Tepper is worth over $20 billion as a hedge fund manager and NFL/MLS team owner. Compared to that, $529 million is a small fraction of his wealth.

Another fan also seconded the statement.

"I’m sorry, giving this money to charities that pocket 50-60% of every dollar is a joke...," wrote the user.

One of the fans even recalled a public incident that Tepper was involved in.

"He was also really generous to donate his drink to that fan in Jacksonville!" they said, sharing a GIF of that incident.

This was a comment on Tepper's viral spat with a heckler. Carolina had lost 26–0 to the Jaguars (Dec 31, 2023). Angry with the result, Tepper did the unthinkable, tossing his drink at the fan's face.

The league fined Tepper $300,000 for such unacceptable conduct.

While David Tepper continues receiving recognition for his philanthropic contributions, fan reactions showed how divided public opinion around the Panthers owner remains. Tepper’s reputation continues to spark strong reactions on both sides.

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Sourav Ganguly

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote