5 bold predictions for the Carolina Panthers 2023 offseason

Carolina Panthers appoint Ben Johnson as head coach

Interviews are currently taking place almost daily as the Carolina Panthers determine who is the best head coaching candidate to lead the franchise moving forward. Steve Wilks did an incredible job in difficult circumstances as interim, but team owner David Tepper is clearly looking at a bright offensive mind if the shortlist is any indication.

Wilks deserves strong consideration after restoring pride back into every aspect of the Panthers. There is a strong sense of belief within the locker room, with many established stars going to bat for their coach both during and after the 2022 regular season concluded.

If Wilks got the job, not many would grumble. But the Panthers leaving Ben Johnson‘s interview until next week could mean he is their primary target without anything confirmed for sure.

Johnson hails from the Carolinas and gained a strong reputation for his play-calling prowess as Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator this season. While he doesn’t have NFL head coaching experience, he’s been in various pro coaching positions for a decade and gained serious momentum at the right time.

One only has to look at how Lions fans want him to stay as an example of Johnson’s impact. His masterful game plan to end the Green Bay Packers’ playoff hopes at the final hurdle is something else that wouldn’t have gone unnoticed by Tepper.

There are a number of ways Carolina can go here. But don’t be surprised if they settle on Johnson when the time comes.