Panthers at Risk of Losing Perfect Dave Canales Replacement

The Carolina Panthers have already won more games this season through ten games than they did all of 2023. Despite the frustrations of the fanbase, it's clear that the team is much improved under head coach Dave Canales.

However, the Panthers are still far from being a relevant and competitive team. They are 28th offensively and dead last defensively. They still haven't found a long-term solution at quarterback.

On the surface, there is nothing to suggest that Dave Canales' job is in danger. Yet, you simply never know with David Tepper as the lead decision-maker. Canales signed a six-year contract at the beginning of the season, but that rarely stops Tepper from making an impulsive decision.

Therefore, it's reasonable to expect some changes in the coaching staff in the next year or two. This includes the coordinators. In fact, Conor Orr of Sports Illustrated identified a Panthers coordinator who may not be long for the role. Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik was identified as a head coaching candidate in Orr's long list.

"Just 33 years old, Brad Idzik is one of the youngest coordinators in the NFL and had the difficult task of spearheading a major rebuild in Carolina alongside new head coach Dave Canales. Idzik blends the analytical and personal well in his approach. "

- Conor Orr, Sports Illustrated

Idzik was hired as the offensive coordinator in the 2024 offseason. He has previously worked under Canales in Seattle and Tampa Bay. At 33 years old, he is a well-regarded coach around the league despite the lack of significant offensive improvement in Carolina this season. He is seen as a natural successor to Canales if things don't work out with him.

At the same time, the Panthers may not be able to keep him in the building long-term. If he is already drawing attention around the NFL, it won't be too long before he gets a bigger and better opportunity.

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