Matt Rhule – Carolina Panthers HC
After losing 12 out of their final 14 games to finish with yet another five-win campaign, speculation was rampant about whether the Carolina Panthers would move on from head coach Matt Rhule this offseason.
The former Baylor man hasn’t left the best impression over the last two years, with poor personnel moves and a lack of in-game adjustments playing a major factor in the team failing to meet modest objections.
Despite fans and large portions of the media calling for Rhule to be removed from the equation, this fell on deaf ears where David Tepper is concerned. The owner is reportedly unhappy and embarrassed about the seven-year, $62 million deal according to Joe Person of The Athletic, but it was not enough for the billionaire to swallow his pride, admit a mistake, and go in a completely different direction.
Rhule was kept out of the spotlight more often than not this offseason as the Panthers put general manager Scott Fitterer front and center. But this has not stopped rumors about his future from gaining speed once again after a report surfaced about Carolina potentially going all-in for Sean Payton to take over in 2023.
There is nothing Rhule can do about stories like this coming out. Winning is the only thing that will ease his job insecurity and it’s essential he makes full use of another chance provided by Tepper next time around.