Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper is set to bring sweeping changes to the organization, starting with the selection of a new head coach. With the NFL expecting Tepper to lean towards an offensive-minded coach, there are several potential contenders for the position. Among them are Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, who previously withdrew from consideration for the Panthers’ head-coaching job, and Brian Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Philadelphia Eagles. Both coaches are highly regarded and sought after by multiple teams in need of an offensive overhaul.
The Panthers’ primary objective is to nurture and unlock the full potential of their young quarterback, Bryce Young. As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft, Young possesses immense talent and promise. However, it is vital for Carolina to hire a head coach who can influence and guide Young, similar to the way Mike McDaniel transformed the Miami Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa. McDaniel’s mentorship helped Tagovailoa develop from a struggling rookie into a top-tier NFL starting quarterback and even an MVP candidate.
Before McDaniel’s arrival in Miami, there were discussions of abandoning Tagovailoa and pursuing high-profile veterans like Tom Brady or Deshaun Watson. However, a change in coaching philosophy and strategic approach had a significant impact on Tagovailoa’s growth and success. The Panthers hope to replicate this transformation by finding the right head coach for Young.
While the focus has been on the coaching staff, the future of general manager Scott Fitterer remains uncertain. Sources within the league suggest that Fitterer has not received any assurances regarding his position from the Panthers’ ownership. Although Carolina has expressed its desire to retain Fitterer, his fate hangs in the balance. It is crucial for Tepper to establish a coherent leadership structure that aligns with the team’s long-term vision.
In the meantime, interim head coach Chris Tabor has emphasized a new approach for the team. As the Panthers prepare for their upcoming game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tabor has urged the players to play fast, stay loose, and relax on the field. By instilling a sense of confidence and ease, the organization hopes to see improved performance not only in this game but throughout the rest of the season.
Furthermore, the coaching staff has undergone changes in playcalling responsibilities. Offensive coordinator Thomas Brown, who briefly took charge of playcalling before it was returned to former head coach Frank Reich prior to his dismissal, has now regained his role. Additionally, Jim Caldwell, a senior assistant, will work alongside Brown as a special adviser. Panthers quarterbacks coach Parks Frazier will also have a more hands-on role with Bryce Young, moving from the booth to the field to directly interact with the young signal-caller. Frazier replaces Josh McCown, who was let go along with Reich and assistant head coach and running backs coach Duce Staley.
As the Carolina Panthers navigate the uncertain waters of change, the spotlight is on owner David Tepper to make astute decisions regarding the hiring of a new head coach and the future of the general manager position. Finding an offensive-minded coach who can nurture the talents of Bryce Young is paramount for the organization’s success. Simultaneously, establishing a clear leadership structure and fostering a positive team culture are essential steps towards building a competitive and cohesive team.
The Panthers are at a crossroads. With the right strategic moves, they can harness the potential of their young quarterback and elevate the team to new heights. As they reshape their coaching staff and fortify their organizational structure, Carolina is poised to embark on a new era, filled with promise and potential. Only time will tell if these changes will bring about the desired results, but the Panthers are determined to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of success.
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