What were some major observations from Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero’s first media availability this week?
It’s been a hugely encouraging few weeks for the Carolina Panthers. Frank Reich has burned the midnight oil in pursuit of finding the best staffing candidates possible, which has led to an all-star cast thanks to the head coach’s strong connections and team owner David Tepper’s willingness to put the money up to make this a reality.
Perhaps there is no more important addition than Ejiro Evero. The defensive coordinator gained head coaching interest this offseason and if things go well on the Panthers in 2023, it could be enough to convince another team he’s deserving of a top job.
Evero’s arrival is set to completely shift the dynamic for Carolina’s young, athletic defense. The talent is there providing the right recruits are secured this offseason, so the progressive defensive mind could ignite this unit into one of the league’s most prolific if everything goes well during the preparation period.
Without further ado, here are four major observations from Evero’s first presser since becoming Carolina’s defensive coordinator.
Major Observation No. 1
How Carolina Panthers plan to use Jeremy Chinn
One topic that came up during Ejiro Evero’s opening press conference was how the defensive coordinator plans to use Jeremy Chinn. The Carolina Panthers need a big campaign from the do-it-all weapon in 2023, which could see a bumper new contract coming his way if everything goes well.
Evero suggests the Panthers might move Jeremy Chinn around on defense, allowing him to use his skills as a playmaker. He wants to match the scheme to fit the players and their skillsets.
— Steve Reed (@SteveReedAP) February 22, 2023
Evero stated that the Panthers are conjuring up ways to maximize the outstanding attributes Chinn brings to the table. This is a welcome change of pace and one that could bring about another outstanding season for the former second-round pick.
Ejiro Evero focused on the Carolina Panthers
One of the primary reasons why acquiring Ejiro Evero was such a major coup for the Carolina Panthers was the esteem in which he is held around the league. The progressive coach gained plenty of head coaching interest before owners – David Tepper included – went in different directions, but this experience is sure to serve him well in pursuit of a top job somewhere down the line.
When asked about the interviews and the potential of being a head coach as soon as next season, Evero was unwavering. His primary focus is clearly on getting the Panthers’ defense into the elite category and whatever comes after that will be dealt with at the time.
"“I’m not really worried about the next job. I’m worried about the job that’s present. Very fortunate that I had the opportunities I had these last couple of weeks and it was a great experience for me to interview for those jobs. But once that process is over, once I signed the papers to come to Carolina, none of that really matters anymore. It’s about building a winning program here and so that’s kinda how I view it.”"
This is the right mindset to have. Evero is a level-headed individual that is on the up, so he should be fully aware that making a huge impression with Carolina’s defense in 2023 will put him in a strong position to secure his long-awaited promotion when the next head coaching cycle begins.
What’s also important is that the Panthers make the most of Evero while they can. The staff must also groom his potential successor to ensure no momentum is lost when the defensive coordinator inevitably departs the franchise.
Shaq Thompson’s future with the Carolina Panthers
Among the most important decisions facing the Carolina Panthers centers around Shaq Thompson. The veteran linebacker is heading into the final year of his deal and will count a whopping $24.46 million against the salary cap, which is the third-highest team figure behind Taylor Moton and D.J. Moore currently.
Considering how finances are at a premium right now, this number has to come down. Some have speculated that Thompson will be a cap casualty to save Carolina around $13 million, but this would leave a gaping hole at the second level and within the locker room.
When asked about the topic during his introductory presser, Ejiro Evero stated that the decision on Thompson’s future is above his pay grade. However, the defensive coordinator was highly complimentary of the former first-round pick and how he might fit into his creative 3-4 base scheme next season.
That Shaq Thompson endorsement though. #Panthers pic.twitter.com/MuLnJMJL7o
— Unnecessary Bluntness Owner/Coach/QB (@DuncOnDemand) February 22, 2023
Thompson recently revealed on social media he would like to stay but taking a pay cut seemed unlikely. Hopefully, some common ground can be reached – perhaps with a two or three-year deal that pushes the financial can down the road along the way.
This could be the best possible solution for the Panthers and Evero, who could use an experienced figure like Thompson next season to smooth his transition into a different environment.
Carolina Panthers ‘player-first’ mindset
The Carolina Panthers have gained plenty of plaudits for assembling a high-caliber coaching staff – and rightfully so. But defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero confirmed what Frank Reich stated earlier in the week regarding this organization adopting a player-first mindset moving forward.
This is a far cry from the egotistical, often petulant methods Matt Rhule adopted that kept the focus on himself. Something that Evero hopes will provide the spark that ignites Carolina’s defense and the franchise overall to great things in 2023.
"“I always want to have the mindset that it all starts with the players. There’s got to be a purpose behind it. And the purpose is your players. I always tell the guys like, this is not my defense. This is our defense. And it’s the 2023 Carolina Panthers defense. We’re all collaborating to build his defense. I don’t want this to be about me; it’s about us and us doing this thing together.”"
Evero came across superbly during his first presser. He was articulate, insightful, and has a clear plan to bring the best out of what does appear to be a gifted young group that just needs some fine-tuning.
Obviously, there will be departures and incomings as the offseason gathers pace. But with Evero leading the defense, fans can relax safe in the knowledge they have a coach capable of taking this defensive unit to a completely different level in 2023.