3 Panthers on Thin Ice After Major Defensive Coaching Shakeup

The Carolina Panthers surprisingly decided to retain defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero for another season. Despite being the worst defensive unit in the NFL in 2024, the Panthers uncharacteristically opted for continuity and decided to keep head coach Dave Canales and his key coordinators.

At the same time, the Panthers made significant changes to the defensive coaching staff. While Evero wasn't made the scapegoat for the team's defensive struggles, the same can not be said for his assistants. The Panthers parted ways with safeties coach Bert Watts, outside linebackers coach Tem Lukabu, quality control coach Bobby Maffei, and assistant defensive backs coach DeAngelo Hall so far.

The changes will likely spread to the roster. There were plenty of starters who underwhelmed last season. With the coaching shakeup, there are a few Panthers who are likely nearing the end of their time in Carolina. Let's take a look.

1. Shy Tuttle, Defensive Lineman

One of the biggest disappointments for the Panthers during the Ejiro Evero era has been veteran defender Shy Tuttle. When he signed with the Panthers in the 2023 offseason, Tuttle was expected to make a huge impact on the shaky defensive line. Instead, he has been one of the most underwhelming Panthers.

Last season, Tuttle received a 42.7 defensive grade per Pro Football Focus, good for the 116th-best interior defender out of 126 eligible players. This was an even worse grade than his disappointing 52.9 PFF grade in 2023.

The Panthers were the worst pass-rushing and run-defending team in the league last season. Tuttle's lack of impact was a big reason why.

Unfortunately for the Panthers, Tuttle is under contract for another season. It would behoove GM Dan Morgan to make Tuttle a post-June 1 cut that would save the team $6.5 million for next season.