Panthers cannot block 'Chud' from talking to Bucs

Panthers offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski will interview with Tampa Bay on Tuesday, according to a source close to the man known as “Chud.” Many fans have asked why the Panthers would allow Chudzinski to talk to a division rival. In short, they don't have a choice. NFL teams can't block assistant coaches from interviewing for head-coaching opportunities. So while Ron Rivera conceded recently he would be a bit “uneasy” if Chudzinski wound up in the NFC South, there's nothing Rivera can do to keep him from talking to the Bucs. The obvious, follow-up question: Can't the Panthers give Chudzinski a raise to make sure he stays in Charlotte? Sure they can, and I've been told the Panthers are prepared to do so. But Jerry Richardson isn't going to spend money unnecessarily, so I'm guessing the Panthers are waiting to see if Chudzinski gets an offer before countering (Chud already has been passed over in Jacksonville and St. Louis). Of course, money ultimately ...