Matt Rhule – Carolina Panthers HC
After a hugely successful period of recruitment this offseason – coupled with a revamped coaching staff loaded with NFL experience – there are absolutely no excuses for head coach Matt Rhule in 2022.
The former Baylor man got a much-needed vote of confidence from team owner David Tepper during some very rare media availability before the draft. There remains some doubt within the team’s fanbase as to whether or not he was deserving of such a declaration after accumulating just 10 wins over two seasons.
Rhule’s absolute power regarding personnel moves might also have evaporated. He still has a big say, obviously, but the Panthers have been eager to put general manager Scott Fitterer front and center of their operation since the 2021 season came to a conclusion.
Carolina now has a franchise left tackle and a potential future quarterback. There are also very few holes on the roster compared to last season.
It’s time to find out whether Rhule can actually coach effectively. His lack of in-game adjustments came in for significant criticism once again last time around and if this continues to hold the team back, then it might force Tepper to make a bold change in leadership.
The stakes are high for Rhule. But providing this preparation period goes smoothly, making strides during the upcoming campaign cannot be entirely dismissed.