Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales made a drastic move less than 12 hours after Thursday night’s defeat to the Green Bay Packers, dismissing defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley. Speaking on Friday afternoon, Canales emphasized that the primary objective of these personnel shifts is to instill a renewed sense of confidence within the defensive unit. “I take that responsibility very seriously as the head coach,” Canales stated. “I know it’s my responsibility to put the players in a position where they feel confident, they feel ready to go.”
Panthers HC takes full ownership of firing Evero and Cooley after Packers loss
Canales clarified that while he consulted with owner David Tepper and General Manager Dan Morgan after reviewing extensive information, the final decision rested solely with him. “Ultimately, this is my decision. This falls squarely under the responsibilities of the head coach,” he asserted. The head coach noted that while the team’s effort and physicality have been consistent, the defense has struggled to execute the game plan with the necessary cohesion. He expressed a desire to see the players “connected” and “excited” about playing fast, aiming to bridge the gap between individual effort and collective execution.
The immediate consequence of the firings is the promotion of Todd Wash, who previously served as the Panthers’ defensive line coach, to the newly created defensive coordinator role. This rapid restructuring signals a clear intent to stabilize the back end of the field before the season progresses further. By taking direct ownership of the coaching changes, Canales aims to reset the locker room culture, ensuring every defender is on the same page and fully prepared to compete at the NFL level.
Source: Yahoo Sports
