4 major observations from Thomas Brown’s first Panthers presser

What were some major observations from Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Thomas Brown’s first presser since taking the job?

It’s been a busy week in the Carolina Panthers media room as Frank Reich and other recent hires introduce themselves to fans and the media. The head coach left no stone unturned to secure one of the most prolific staff teams in franchise history, which can hopefully steer the playing side of things in the right direction before the 2023 campaign.

One of the most important acquisitions to the set-up was Thomas Brown. The offensive coordinator comes with a blossoming reputation and even though he won’t call plays initially, Reich outlined his desire to relinquish this responsibility at some stage – although when that comes has yet to be determined.

Brown is a supreme leader of men that gained head coaching interest this year. Providing he thrives during his latest rise up the coaching ladder, then another promotion to a top job somewhere down the line is almost guaranteed.

Without further ado, here are four major observations from Brown’s first presser as Carolina’s offensive coordinator.

Major Observation No. 1

Thomas Brown’s contribution to Carolina Panthers’ staff

The prospect of working alongside some supremely talented Carolina Panthers coaches was obviously a big selling point for Thomas Brown. He called this the best staffing group he’s been part of, which is high praise considering the Los Angeles Rams won a Super Bowl under Sean McVay.

"“We’ve got a dream staff. In my opinion, it’s the best staff, on paper, I’ve ever been a part of. Tons of experience, different backgrounds. To me, it’s always about what’s right versus who’s right.”"

Obviously, the staff will mold the players as best they can. But there’s also a real collective approach mentality emerging this offseason, which is night and day from the Matt Rhule era.

What Thomas Brown wants in Carolina Panthers QB

The inevitable questions about the quarterback position emerged during Thomas Brown’s introductory presser. Something that was always going to rear its head considering how desperate the Carolina Panthers are for a long-term solution under center.

Without giving too much away, Brown stated there had been some tremendous dialogue between influential figures within the organization about which avenue is best to go down. But the traits wanted by the offensive coordinator came across in no uncertain terms.

"“I think it’s a lot of guys are gonna come in all shapes and sizes. But to me, it’s an ongoing conversation. We had some great dialogue the last couple days. It’s about who fits into this system, being selfless from a mentality standpoint, but also having a point guard mentality. Being able to distribute the ball to your playmakers and on third down, red zone, two-minute, go play Superman.”"

This could describe any of the top four quarterbacks emerging from the college ranks in 2023. As it turns out, this is also Carolina’s preferred method of finding a true franchise player if general manager Scott Fitterer’s comments hold any weight.

Brown will have a say, but others will pull rank if needed. Make no mistake, the coach will be one of the biggest influencers in any young signal-caller’s early development whichever way the Panthers go.

Establishing a new Carolina Panthers identity

It’s clear that the overall philosophy surrounding the Carolina Panthers on offense is going to alter significantly under the new regime. Something that’s sorely needed after years of constant underachievement.

Steve Wilks and Ben McAdoo did the best with what they had in difficult circumstances. But it became a little too predictable when the running game failed to establish itself early in games and wasn’t enough for the team to clinch a shock NFC South divisional title.

Thomas Brown set out his stall in terms of how he wanted to adapt the offensive structure working alongside Frank Reich and other coaches. This all starts with physicality, utilizing his primary playmakers in a productive manner and everyone knowing their assignments at all times.

Providing the Panthers get the quarterback position nailed by any means necessary, there’s nothing to suggest significant improvements aren’t in the team’s immediate future. Brown’s ethos will be a refreshing change of pace and with other respected figures also leading the charge, it would be a huge shock if Carolina failed to put up better numbers in 2023.

Brown has the necessary coaching experience and is a forward-thinker. Considering he could be calling plays at some stage during the campaign, it only whets the appetite further when it’s time for Carolina to cross the white lines in a competitive setting.

Embracing the Carolina Panthers’ collaborative approach

Not calling the plays is a moot point for Thomas Brown at this stage of his coaching journey. Frank Reich is the head coach and is a bright offensive mind in his own right, so learning from such a revered figure is only going to help the Carolina Panthers and the coordinator’s own prospects long-term.

Brown might not have an in-game play-calling role initially. But Reich seems more than willing to give this up when the time is right, so the coordinator must be ready for anything during his first season with the franchise.

Based on his comments at the introductory presser, Brown is going to embrace the collaborative approach being adopted by the Panthers. Something that fans hope will provide more efficiency in key areas such as third-down conversions and turning red-zone chances into touchdowns, which have been found wanting of late.

The eventual goal?

Not just improved statistics across the board but winning more football games, too.

"“Everybody talks about being balanced offensively. Balance doesn’t mean always 50-50 from a run-pass standpoint. It means winning the football game. Stats are awesome, but the No. 1 goal is to win football games. So, if we have to throw it 40 times to win or run the ball 40 times to win, it’s all based on a collaborative effort.”"

If hopes were high before these press conferences this week, they are through the roof now. A level of optimism that the team’s loyal fanbase hasn’t had the luxury of for quite some time.

What comes next will define whether these dreams can become reality in 2023.