While many in the Carolina Panthers fan base are still waiting for the national media to embrace their team, the Sporting News has put a big bear hug on the organization.

In January, the outlet named Ron Rivera NFL coach of the year while giving offensive player of the year to quarterback Cam Newton. On Monday, it was Dave Gettleman's turn.

The Panthers' general manager was named executive of the year by the Sporting News, who collects votes from league officials and coaches.

"It's humbling, It's a blessing. I really believe this is truly an organizational award," Gettleman told Vinnie Iyer.

Passed over by a number of teams a handful of times, Gettleman finally got his chance to run the show in January 2013. All he's done since is develop a roster that's won three straight NFC South titles, including one that started 14-0 en route to the Super Bowl.

While former general manager Marty Hurney deserves credit for building the teams' backbone with guys like Newton, linebacker Luke Kuechly and tight end Greg Olsen, Gettleman has done a remarkable job strengthening other positions despite little financial wiggle room.

"It's really having a clear understanding of what the coaches are looking for, and what our offensive and defensive schemes require," Gettleman said.

"Evaluating players, there's nothing fancy about it. There's no magical pixie dust. It's sitting in the room, grinding away and finding those gems."