The Carolina Panthers have fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero following a 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers. With 10 games remaining in the 2026 season, the Panthers, currently 3-4, will turn to interim coordinator Todd Wash to stabilize a unit ranked 23rd in the NFL. During Evero's tenure, the defense ranked 30th in scoring, 28th in pass rush win rate, and last against the run.
Wash, who previously served as defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2016 to 2020, inherits a defense featuring versatile talent. Key players like Derrick Brown, Bobby Brown III, and Tershawn Wharton on the line, along with outside linebackers Jaelan Phillips and Patrick Jones II, have the scheme versatility to adapt. The defensive backfield is bracing for the return of starters Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson from injured reserve, while pass rusher Phillips is easing back from a hamstring injury.
Wash, a longtime defensive line coach, has a history with coach Dave Canales and GM Dan Morgan dating back to their time with the Seattle Seahawks. His expertise in hybrid front schemes could help Carolina improve quickly in the final stretch of the season.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing