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2 clusters · 13 sources · 15 days · First seen · Last updated

Carolina Panthers defensive coaching changes

Overview

In mid October 2026, defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero was viewed by analysts as a potential head coaching candidate despite personnel challenges, as the Carolina Panthers held a 2-2 record.

By late October, the team fired Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley following significant defensive struggles. The decision followed losses to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Green Bay Packers, during which the defense allowed 70 points over two games. The unit ranked among the worst in the NFL for points allowed and rushing defense, having also allowed 59 points in the season opener against the Chicago Bears. Injuries to secondary players, including Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson, contributed to these lapses.

Head coach Dave Canales promoted defensive line coach Todd Wash to interim defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season. Wash, who possesses 31 years of coaching experience and previously served as defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has assumed play-calling responsibilities. Despite the coaching changes and defensive performance, the Panthers hold a 3-4 record and are tied with the Atlanta Falcons for first place in the NFC South.

Entities

Carolina Panthers · Jonathan Cooley · Ejiro Evero · Vic Fangio · Philadelphia Eagles

Timeline

  1. [SPORTS] 13 sources
    Carolina Panthers fire defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero

    The Carolina Panthers fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and Jonathan Cooley, naming Todd Wash as interim defensive coordinator following recent defensive struggles and losses.

  2. [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero emerges as head coaching candidate

    Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero is emerging as a head coaching candidate following a strong start despite personnel challenges, while Eagles DC Vic Fangio prepares for the matchup.

Sources

bleacherreport.com · gulklud.dk · kstp.com · majic945.com · newsday.com · si.com · sundayguardianlive.com · thebeatdfw.com · tmspn.com · turfshowtimes.com · winnipegfreepress.com · world-today-journal.com · yucatan.com.mx

This summary has been updated 1 time: see revision history