Frank Reich proving the Panthers right with initial coaching moves

Frank Reich is putting together an all-star coaching cast, which proves the Carolina Panthers made the right call by appointing the head coach.

Even though there was a sense of excitement when Frank Reich became head coach, one couldn’t ignore the disappointment of overlooking Steve Wilks. A man who restored pride to the Carolina Panthers in double-quick time and also got them within touching distance of an NFC South title triumph for good measure.

Many pointed to the NFL’s suspect hiring process when it comes to minority coaches. Wilks has been stung by this before – he’s already part of the Brian Flores lawsuit stemming from his unfair treatment by the Arizona Cardinals – so this did nothing to dispel the notion things are not progressing effectively enough around the league.

However, that does not detract from Reich’s credentials. He is well-connected, brings bags of coaching experience, and has proven credentials when it comes to either developing young talent to scheming productive offenses.

Carolina Panthers are making serious moves under Frank Reich

One of the biggest statements Reich made following his arrival was his intent to form the best coaching staff possible. Something that drew the full support of team owner David Tepper as the Panthers finally look to emerge from the wilderness.

No longer would this be the old friends club run by Matt Rhule. The intent was to find high-quality coaches and strike with conviction to get them into the franchise.

Judging by the Panthers’ initial moves, Reich’s well on his way to attaining his objective. And the appointment of Ejiro Evero as defensive coordinator was another significant feather in Carolina’s cap.

For the Panthers to land such a coveted coach who generated legitimate head coaching interest this offseason is a sign things are changing in Carolina. Evero might be a short-term option considering his high upside as a future head coach, but having him around in 2023 represents a real statement of intent from Reich that major strides are on the way.

Wilks was a great coach and supreme leader as interim. However, had he gotten the job, then it’s likely the Panthers would have retained Al Holcomb as defensive coordinator.

Whether this part of his plan was the reason Tepper looked the other way is debatable. But Reich’s clear credentials when it comes to attracting and enhancing talented young coaches might have tipped the scales in his favor.

If reports are to be believed, this is what the Panthers have under Reich so far:

• Ejiro Evero – DC
• Duce Staley – role unconfirmed
• Chris Tabor – ST coordinator
• James Campen – OL coach

This is a far cry from the staffing structure under Rhule or Wilks. There is a lot of hard work ahead, but things couldn’t be going much better and hopefully, this is a trend that can continue long into the future.

Reich’s fresh approach has most buying in after doubts initially emerged from those who wanted Wilks to get the job. It’s also the biggest indicator yet of the lessons taken on board by Tepper after Rhule’s disastrous three years as head coach.

It’s time to take the Panthers seriously once again. And it’s been an age since anyone could say that with much conviction.