Carolina Panthers: Assembling a ‘dream’ coaching staff

Carolina Panthers dream coaching staff: Vic Fangio (Defensive Coordinator)

Vic Fangio spent four outstanding seasons with the Carolina Panthers as a defensive coordinator. He was the brainchild behind their imposing defense in 1996 that brought the team to prominence in only their second season competing in the NFL.

Fangio has since gone on to achieve great things, most notably with the San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears. He is now the head coach of the Denver Broncos, who are quietly fancied to make a run in 2020.

Carolina Panthers dream coaching staff: Eric Washington (Defensive Line coach)

Eric Washington was largely respected within the locker room and held the position of defensive line coach from 2011-17. He worked alongside the likes of Julius Peppers and Charles Johnson during his time in the role. And both spoke glowingly about the way he developed their skills.

Washington earned a promotion to defensive coordinator in 2018 during Ron Rivera’s final two seasons at the helm. The new regime with the Carolina Panthers opted not to keep him around in favor of the experienced Phil Snow.

Carolina Panthers dream coaching staff: Sam Mills (Linebackers coach)

When one examines the impact made with the Carolina Panthers throughout history., it is hard to argue that Sam Mills’ story is not the most inspirational. The player turned coach is the epitome of “Keep Pounding”. And the fact he kept working despite struggling with a serious illness is a testament to the drive, determination, and vigor he brought on the field and in his coaching position.

It is a legacy that will live through the ages. And although Mills is no longer with us. We felt it was only right to include him as part of our dream coaching staff.

Carolina Panthers dream coaching staff: Rod Perry (Secondary coach)

Rod Perry was the defensive backs coach with the Carolina Panthers during the early part of the millennium. He was a stout force and a keen motivator who always got a spark out of his players.

Following his time in Carolina, Perry spent five seasons as a special assistant to the defense before eventually calling it a day in the NFL. He is currently part of the staff at Oregon State University.

Carolina Panthers dream coaching staff: Mike Gillhamer (Safeties coach)

Matt Gillhamer did it all during his time with the Carolina Panthers. But his specialty was fine-tuning the defensive backs, and in particular, players at the safety spot.

This is something he did exceptionally well over a three-year period as a safety coach. And Gillhamer is more than deserving of a place on the Panthers’ dream coaching staff.

Carolina Panthers dream coaching staff: Bruce DeHaven (Special Teams Coordinator)

Another who is sadly no longer with us, Bruce DeHaven was a valued member of the Carolina Panthers in his role as special teams coordinator, which he held from 2013-16. He is probably best remembered for his time working with the Buffalo Bills, where he was part of the staff that missed out on four straight Super Bowls.