4 possible replacements for Mike Phair as Panthers DL coach
By Dean Jones
The Carolina Panthers are looking for a new defensive line coach after parting ways with Mike Phair this week.
It not just on the roster where the Carolina Panthers are embarking on some considerable changes. The introduction of new general manager Scott Fitterer is sure to shake things up regarding draft evaluation and recruitment in free agency, with plenty of current players also facing an uncertain future in the coming weeks before their respective fates are sealed.
Carolina has also made some changes to their coaching set-up, who are currently in Mobile, Alabama getting a good look at some potential 2021 NFL Draft picks at the Senior Bowl. The team officially confirmed the arrival of Sean Ryan as quarterbacks coach – who has worked with Matthew Stafford and Deshaun Watson in the past, with Tony Sparano Jr. coming on board as an assistant offensive line coach.
One man who won’t be part of plans moving forward is Mike Phair. The defensive line coach won’t be brought back in 2021 in a surprising move, especially when one considers how much the young unit progressed throughout the campaign.
The Carolina Panthers have plenty of DL talent.
This would be an enticing proposition for anybody out of work currently.
Improving a talented core that includes Brian Burns, Yetur Gross-Matos, and Derrick Brown is a vital component of the Panthers’ hopes for progression. So it is another appointment that Carolina must get right before OTAs are scheduled to begin.
On the subject of this, here are four potential candidates that the Panthers might want to consider as their new defensive line coach.
Candidate No. 1
Dennis Johnson
Although he is still a relative puppy in coaching terms, someone like Dennis Johnson could be an option worth considering. There is the obvious Baylor connection, although Matt Rhule decided to leave before the defensive line coach was hired by the Bears. But the Panthers head coach will still have connections within the organization to get a feel for whether he is ready for such a step-up this early in his career off the field.
Prior to joining Baylor, Johnson was a member of LSU’s coaching staff after a successful playing stint with the Tigers. He has a reputation for being a strong recruiter who commands the respect of those he is working with, which could make a smooth transition to the pros.
A move to the NFL is bound to happen sooner rather than later. Only time will tell as to whether the Panthers go with a young, progressive coach such as Johnson or opt for a little more experience.