The Carolina Panthers have announced significant changes to their coaching staff following a disappointing 3-4 start to the 2026 NFL season. In a move that comes after a 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football, the team has fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley. Owner David Tepper had high expectations for the team, and the recent performance has prompted a reevaluation of the coaching strategy.
Taking over the defensive coordinator role on an interim basis is Todd Wash, who previously served as the defensive line coach. Wash will also be responsible for calling defensive plays moving forward, as the Panthers look to turn their season around. The decision to part ways with Evero reflects the urgency within the organization to improve performance on the field, particularly on the defensive side where the team has struggled.S3S4
Ejiro Evero's departure is a notable shift for the Panthers, who had hoped to build a strong defensive unit under his guidance. The team will now rely on Todd Wash to implement changes and improve the defensive strategy as they prepare for their upcoming games. With the coaching staff in flux, the Panthers are under pressure to show improvement quickly to meet the expectations set by ownership and fans alike.S1S2