Two experienced names set for Panthers head coach interviews

A recent report revealed two experienced figures are set to interview for the Carolina Panthers head coaching position in 2023. 

The Carolina Panthers have some pivotal upcoming decisions to make this off-season. Perhaps the biggest of them all is deciding who should be their next head coach beyond the current campaign.

Steve Wilks has done a fantastic job of not only steadying the ship in the wake of Matt Rhule’s firing but also progressing performance levels on the field. Something that’s come with multiple calls from within the locker room for team owner David Tepper to make the interim Carolina’s permanent appointment.

This would keep continuity and allow Wilks the chance to select his own coaching staff. But there is also no doubt that Tepper will explore every possibility before coming to an official decision.

Tepper cannot afford another wrong move after the gamble to tempt Rhule from the college ranks ended in massive failure. NFL rules also state a number of additional interviews other than Wilks must take place before an appointment is confirmed one way or another.

Carolina Panthers set to interview Frank Reich and Jim Caldwell

According to Jay Glazer of FOX Sports, two names are ready to enter the fray. The respected insider stated that Frank Reich and Jim Caldwell will be among the first two names set to interview for Carolina’s head coaching job, with more expected in the not-too-distant future as the Panthers look to make this decision count.

Both candidates fit the mold of what Tepper reportedly wants in his next head coach. They have legitimate NFL experience, can lead men, and also know what it takes to be successful in the pros.

Reich, in particular, is a name to watch.

His untimely departure from the Indianapolis Colts came after some failed personnel moves. But Reich is still held in high regard among league circles and was the offensive coordinator when the Philadelphia Eagles clinched a memorable Super Bowl triumph.

Identifying Caldwell as a candidate of interest is also notable. His time as head coach of the Detroit Lions was respectable and few would begrudge him another chance of leading a franchise at some stage.

Everything should happen pretty quickly in the coming days. The Panthers need to focus on their guy at the earliest possible opportunity and strike with conviction to give the new head coach every chance of forming a concise offseason plan alongside general manager Scott Fitterer.

As stated previously, expect numerous other candidates to come up over the next fortnight or so. In the case of someone like DeMeco Ryans, it could be a little longer depending on how the San Francisco 49ers get on in the postseason.

Strap yourselves in, it should be a dramatic few weeks for everyone associated with the Panthers. Let’s hope Tepper emerges from them with the correct hire.