4 pros and cons to the Carolina Panthers hiring Sean Payton
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers get an offensive genius
The growing trend of offensive-minded head coaches having success is once again evident during the playoffs. Something that hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Carolina Panthers if their shortlist of candidates is any indication.
Steve Wilks remains the only interviewee with a defensive background. Although the Panthers might go back to DeMeco Ryans after logistics prevented an interview from taking place before the San Francisco 49ers’ playoff game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Carolina is also set to welcome Ben Johnson on Wednesday, who is the frontrunner according to respected insiders such as Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports and Joe Person of The Athletic. But Sean Payton’s innovations on offense are another reason why team owner David Tepper might lean in his direction.
Payton’s knowledge and ability to get the best out of his players cannot be ignored. Couple this with outstanding adjustments depending on the opposition, and it’s not hard to see why the current FOX Sports analyst is highly coveted.
The Panthers have an offensive line capable of dominating with further development. They also have some dynamic weapons to utilize including D.J. Moore, who would thrive further under Payton’s leadership.
There is still the quarterback situation to figure out. But the signal-caller’s task would be much easier if Payton came into the fold.