4 Carolina Panthers that could use a change of scenery in 2023
By Dean Jones
Ben McAdoo – Carolina Panthers OC
It seemed strange at the time to see Matt Rhule bet his critical third season on Ben McAdoo turning the offense around. This was not the rockstar offensive coordinator promised by those in power and it didn’t take long for cracks to show within a scheme that was basic at best over the early part of 2022.
McAdoo’s bland and predictable playcalling was figured out quickly by opposing defenses. There was also a complete lack of confidence in Baker Mayfield, who the former New York Giants head coach wasn’t the biggest fan of pre-draft and they just didn’t hit it off.
Things have progressed somewhat since Rhule’s absolute power was removed. Steve Wilks and McAdoo are establishing an identity of running the football and being efficient in the passing game, which came to life in Week 12 against the Denver Broncos en route to a third-straight home triumph.
Whether McAdoo can do enough for an extended stay even if Wilks gets the job long-term remains to be seen. However, what the coach can do is generate momentum and salvage his reputation enough to get another job elsewhere in 2023.
McAdoo is a respected talent evaluator that’s had success with quarterback development throughout his career. It hasn’t been a bed of roses in prominent coaching positions, so perhaps this is a role where he’s best suited next season and potentially beyond.