4 Panthers legends that could return under Steve Wilks in 2023
By Dean Jones
Which Carolina Panthers legends could make a return under interim head coach Steve Wilks if he gets the head coaching gig beyond 2022?
Steve Wilks has not been afraid to restore the fabric that’s made the Carolina Panthers a force to be reckoned with throughout franchise history. Matt Rhule wanted to go his own way and overbear almost every area of the organization, which came with very few accomplishments before his firing after Week 5.
The Panthers mantra is something that means a great deal to Wilks, who was a fan before anything else. Restoring the culture is also going down well with the players since his well-deserved promotion.
After the Panthers brought back former All-Pro cornerback Josh Norman in the wake of Jaycee Horn’s broken wrist, debate commenced about whether more familiar faces could also return if Wilks gets David Tepper’s seal of approval when Carolina’s 2022 engagements conclude.
On this topic, we picked out four Panthers legends that could make a return in various capacities with Wilks at the helm in 2023.
Legend No. 1
Thomas Davis – Former Carolina Panthers LB
- Position: Linebackers Coach
There have been very few linebackers in franchise history with the credentials accomplished by Thomas Davis. His heart, desire, and leadership made him a fan favorite, which was matched by exceptional production throughout a glittering spell with the Carolina Panthers.
Davis is now retired after spells with the Los Angeles Chargers and Washington. But his knowledge and ability to motivate could make a smooth transition to the coaching ranks if Steve Wilks came calling.