CHARLOTTE – Scott Fitterer wasn’t the first candidate the Panthers talked to.

Clearly, he made an impression that lasted.

The Panthers on Thursday night agreed to terms on a five-year deal with Fitterer to become their new general manager.

Fitterer, the Seahawks’ vice president of football operations, first interviewed by videoconference Monday, the final day of the 15 preliminary interviews for the position.

He was back for an in-person interview Wednesday, the last of the final four to meet a second time with head coach Matt Rhule and owner David Tepper in person.

“We went through a thorough process and it was a great final four,” Tepper said. “We thought Scott was the best fit for the organization.”

Fitterer has been with the Seahawks since 2001, and operated as a co-assistant GM under John Schneider — who