The Carolina Panthers are fully focused on continuing their transformation under head coach Dave Canales, hoping to build for the future while creating a sustainable foundation.
There were encouraging signs at the conclusion of the 2024 campaign, yet it's clear that this roster still has a long way to go before it's ready to compete for a consistent playoff spot. Bryce Young showed promise, yet he's failed to deliver on his potential as the first pick in the draft.
Nonetheless, some familiar faces are finding new jobs elsewhere to various degrees of success. In a surprise move, one ex-Panthers coach just landed a surprise gig in the college ranks.
Sources: Stanford is hiring veteran NFL coach Frank Reich as the school’s interim football coach for 2025 season. Both sides have agreed this will be only a one-season agreement. At that point, Stanford will launch a national search. pic.twitter.com/21NuVUCjjt
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) March 31, 2025
Former Panthers Coach Frank Reich Hired as Stanford's Interim Head Coach
According to college football insider Pete Thamel of ESPN, former Panthers head coach Frank Reich has been hired as Stanford University's interim football coach for 2025. It's a unique marriage, as Reich will only be the coach for one year before retired quarterback Andrew Luck leads a national search for a long-term option.
The Cardinal's program has been trapped in mediocrity for several years and is now scrambling thanks to a reported culture of misogyny and controversy under now-fired former coach Troy Taylor. Reich will be tasked with repairing a damaged reputation for a once-great program, hoping to instill stability and respect during his tenure.
He was the coach of Carolina in 2023, holding the role for just one season and notching a 1-10 record before being quickly dismissed. While Reich didn't find any success with the Panthers, he's still a respected football mind and considered to be a strong leader.
Hopefully, he'll be able to enhance his reputation during his one year in the college ranks. Since being let go by Carolina, Reich was out of coaching entirely. He had the fourth-shortest tenure as a head coach in NFL history, yet this is an opportunity to prove that he's still deserving of a shot at the professional level.
Whether or not things work out remains to be seen, yet it's still a neat chance for Reich to rebuild trust in football circles.