Which Carolina Panthers players stand to benefit most from Ejiro Evero agreeing to become their new defensive coordinator in 2023?
The Carolina Panthers pulled off a significant coup on Sunday evening when Ejiro Evero agreed to become the team’s defensive coordinator in 2023. This could be a masterstroke from head coach Frank Reich, who is putting together an all-star staff capable of getting this talented group back into contention sooner rather than later.
Evero was likely enticed by the high upside on Carolina’s defense. And if his recent work with the Denver Broncos is any indication, the Panthers might just have a prolific unit on their hands next season.
This appointment comes with a huge amount of intrigue. Even if Evero’s stay in Carolina could be short-lived given the interview interest he received during the current head coaching cycle.
With that being said, here are four Panthers players who could benefit most from Evero’s arrival in 2023.
Player No. 1
Brandon Smith – Carolina Panthers LB
After making some encouraging strides when more responsibilities came his way in 2022, Brandon Smith could be one player who excels within Ejiro Evero’s scheme. His athleticism, explosiveness, and physicality could be used anywhere across a 3-4 primary base, but much will depend on the player’s progress this offseason ahead of his sophomore campaign.
Smith has the talent to become a key piece of Evero’s puzzle. Having such a coveted defensive coordinator scheming up ways to maximize his skill set is only going to benefit the Carolina Panthers next season.
Brian Burns – Carolina Panthers DE
Another player that could benefit greatly from Ejiro Evero’s presence is Brian Burns. The stud defensive end continued his upward trajectory in 2022 with 12.5 sacks and a second-straight Pro Bowl selection, which is sure to make him a wealthy man when it’s time to sort out a new contract with the Carolina Panthers in the very near future.
Burns’ explosiveness and speed are two things Evero values highly in pass-rushers within his scheme. Whether the former first-round pick has his hand in the dirt or becomes a stand-up rusher is moot – the impact will be significant wherever he lines up.
Having a weapon like this will be key for Evero, who is known to bring pressure often and rely heavily on defensive backs holding their own in man coverage. There are very few who get to the spot quicker than Burns, whose production last season was the main reason why Carolina’s sack numbers stayed relatively respectable in the wake of Haason Reddick’s departure.
Evero will already be conjuring up ways to best use Burns, who is a core figure to any future success thanks to sterling on-field performances and growing influence within the locker room.
If Burns takes another leap forward under Evero, then a potential All-Pro-caliber campaign could be in the offing. It would also enhance the coordinator’s credentials ahead of the next head coaching cycle in 2024.
Frankie Luvu – Carolina Panthers LB
Although the defensive second level could be set for big changes this offseason, the presence of Frankie Luvu remains a massive positive. His production when promoted to the starting lineup last season was nothing short of outstanding and something that can increase even further with Ejiro Evero now fully committed to the cause.
The Carolina Panthers got themselves a gem with Luvu. Just why things turned sour on the New York Jets is anyone’s guess, but the one-time Washington State standout is the sort of instinctive playmaker every team needs in pursuit of playoff success.
Luvu’s athleticism and versatility are music to Evero’s ears, one suspects. There’s no telling where he could line up along the front seven on any given down, which is a nightmare for opposing protection schemes considering how well he generated pressure in 2022.
Relying on Luvu’s natural instincts to be around the football consistently and allowing him the freedom to be reactive is crucial. It won’t take long for Evero to figure out what an asset he has in the player, so all signs point to the pair hitting it off in no uncertain terms this offseason.
The Panthers would be wise to tie Luvu down long-term before competitive action begins in 2023. Because there’s just no telling how much better he can get under Evero’s guidance.
Jeremy Chinn – Carolina Panthers S
There remains some contention about where Jeremy Chinn is best suited after three years with the Carolina Panthers. While his performances have been solid since returning to the safety spot where he starred in college, many hope the former second-round selection will return to the second level moving forward.
Chinn’s production as an outside linebacker during his rookie campaign was exceptional. Something that saw the player become unfortunate not to win NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year as a result.
This will be one of the biggest priorities for Ejiro Evero to analyze once he gets to work. The Panthers need to put Chinn in positions to roam the field, react to what’s occurring in front of him, and become a true difference-maker.
It’s a big season upcoming for Chinn, which is the last of his rookie deal. The Panthers might extend him before time this offseason, but adopting a wait-and-see approach is also something for those in power to consider.
Evero has an embarrassment of riches in Carolina. How the coordinator uses Chinn will be a critical component of any success that comes his way in 2023.
All signs point to Chinn becoming more of a factor at the line of scrimmage. And if anyone can bring the best out of the Southern Illinois product, it’s Evero.