4 major observations from the Carolina Panthers hiring Frank Reich
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers followed the current trend
With coaches with backgrounds on offense once again thriving in the playoffs, this was something the Carolina Panthers couldn’t ignore. And for the first time in franchise history, they appointed an offensive-minded head coach.
Frank Reich is a former quarterback that threw Carolina’s first-ever touchdown pass. His career has now come full circle by becoming the team’s leader within the locker room, which brings a significant amount of intrigue and genuine hope for progression.
Obviously, the first port of call is finding a new quarterback. Reich has a strong reputation for developing talent and after veteran trades didn’t pan out with the Indianapolis Colts, going after their college prospect of choice is the likely option.
There is enough talent in Carolina for Reich to hit the ground running. But they must nail their man under center considering the constant stream of poor personnel choices when Matt Rhule held absolute power.
It’ll be interesting to see how the players respond to an offensive-minded coach after so long without one. If Reich gets them all buying in early and the reinforcements acquired transition well, then there is a real chance to seize the NFC South initiative with so much uncertainty elsewhere.