Panthers DE Hardy to take leave of absence

Sep 17, 2014 - 9:00 PM Charlotte, NC (SportsNetwork.com) - The Carolina Panthers announced on Wednesday that embattled defensive end Greg Hardy will take a voluntary leave of absence from the club.

Carolina GM Dave Gettleman said in a press conference that Hardy had the option to be placed on the exempt list and availed himself of that opportunity.

This latest twist in Hardy's saga came three days after the club changed course abruptly and deactivated him just prior to Sunday's 24-7 victory over the Detroit Lions.

"There is no rule book for this. Our overriding goal has always been to do the right thing," Gettleman added.

Hardy played in Carolina's season opener despite being found guilty by a judge on domestic violence charges in July and was expected to be in uniform again.

But while his appeal of the ruling was enough to avoid a suspension -- he is currently awaiting a jury trial -- the Ray Rice saga and the NFL's subsequent decision for a tougher policy against domestic violence apparently forced the Panthers to bench the defensive star.

According to a police report, Hardy assaulted girlfriend Nicole Holder and threatened to kill her during an altercation in May.

Holder said Hardy choked her with both hands around her throat and threw her onto a couch covered with assault rifles and shotguns. She said Hardy told her all the weapons were loaded.

"Greg is hurt. It is a tough situation. He knows he put himself in it." Panthers head coach Ron Rivera said. "Greg is still part of this football team. We have done nothing but put him on a leave of absence. We're worried about the wrong things ... trying to find out who to blame. I hope people understand we're trying to get this right."

Hardy tied a franchise record with 15 sacks in 2013. The Panthers placed the franchise tag on him at a cost of $13.1 million this season. A sixth-round pick by the Panthers in 2010, Hardy has 34 sacks in 63 career games with Carolina.

The NFLPA revealed the following in its statement: "Today, Greg Hardy made a decision to take a voluntary leave of absence to resolve his pending legal issue. The NFLPA and NFL worked with Greg, his representatives and the Carolina Panthers on this matter. We support this decision and hope the best for him and his family."