4 reasons Carolina Panthers should consider Jim Harbaugh for head coach

The Carolina Panthers are looking for a new head coach and Jim Harbaugh should be considered as Matt Rhule’s long-term replacement.

Steve Wilks has done a fantastic job since replacing Matt Rhule. Although the Carolina Panthers failed to secure an unlikely NFC South championship, the interim head coach deserves endless praise for galvanizing the franchise and restoring a sense of respectability when all hope seemed lost.

Whether that’s enough for Wilks to get the head coaching gig beyond 2022 is debatable. His case is strong, but team owner David Tepper is likely to cast a wide net in pursuit of finally getting this organization on the right path.

According to Will Kunkle of FOX Charlotte, Tepper has already had a conversation with Jim Harbaugh about the position. This report, which was later confirmed by Joe Person of The Athletic, was not a job interview but merely putting out feelers of interest ahead of the interview process.

This might be a little harsh on Wilks. But here are four reasons why Harbaugh should be considered if there is a mutual interest in the Panthers’ job.

Reason No. 1

Carolina Panthers need NFL experience

After David Tepper bet big and lost on a college coach turning the Carolina Panthers around, it would be wise for the billionaire to seek someone with legitimate NFL head coaching experience this time around. Although Jim Harbaugh’s also been at the collegiate level for a number of years, this is something he has in abundance.

Harbaugh almost returned to the NFL last year with the Minnesota Vikings before things fell apart at the 11th hour. Multiple reports suggest he’d jump at the chance in 2023, so this certainly ticks the boxes of what Tepper is said to be looking for.