Panthers fire their defensive coordinator midseason

By the Editorial Team · Saturday, October 31, 2026

The Carolina Panthers fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley after their loss to the Green Bay Packers, making Evero the first NFL coordinator dismissed in the 2024 season. With the team struggling defensively—ranked 22nd overall and last against the run—head coach Dave Canales aims to revamp the defense to boost performance in upcoming games.

The Carolina Panthers dismissed defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley on Friday, following the team’s loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football. Evero became the first NFL coordinator to be let go during the 2024 season.

The Panthers, currently holding a 3-4 record, entered the week ranked 22nd in overall defense and dead last in defending against the run. The defensive struggles played a significant role in the team's decision to make the coaching changes midseason.

This move marks the first major coaching adjustment by head coach Dave Canales since he assumed his role earlier this year. The Panthers now face the task of addressing their defensive shortcomings as they look to improve their performance in the remaining games of the season.

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