Panthers HC Dave Canales hints at who he wants as the team's defensive coordinator moving forward
New-look Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales revealed Thursday who he plans to have as the team's defensive coordinator moving forward. It was believed that Canales would bring in a staff of his own. But during the introductory press conference, which featured new-look general manager Dan Morgan, Canales said he intends to retain defensive coordinator […]
New-look Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales revealed Thursday who he plans to have as the team's defensive coordinator moving forward.
It was believed that Canales would bring in a staff of his own. But during the introductory press conference, which featured new-look general manager Dan Morgan, Canales said he intends to retain defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, Ari Meirov reported on X.
Evero was in the hunt for several coaching opportunities around the league. However, Canales is staking his claim on the assistant coach's services ahead of the 2024 season.
Evero's defense was the sole bright spot for the Panthers in a 2-15 season.
Canales described Evero's perspective role as "huge" moving forward for the Panthers.
It isn't by accident that Evero's defense was among the top half of the league in matchups where the Panthers were constantly out-manned on the field.
With Canales coming from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he saw Evero's scheme up close.
The Panthers in 2023 held opponents to 293.9 yards per game, which ranked third in the league. Evero's defense also held opponents to 4.9 yards per play, a rank good enough for sixth.
Several players on the Panthers' defense are still question marks moving forward. But, at least on the surface, it doesn't look like the coordinator isn't one.
Panthers don’t want to change everything
Evero is in his second season as an NFL defensive coordinator
