Carolina Panthers Fire Coaches After TNF Loss To Packers

Carolina Panthers helmet (Photo Via Imagn Images)

Carolina Panthers Fire Coaches After TNF Loss To Packers

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Arnab Mondal | Last updated Oct 30, 2026 1:21 PM ET

The Carolina Panthers shook up their coaching staff less than 12 hours after losing to the Green Bay Packers. The team decided to part ways with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler broke the news about Evero on Friday morning. In response, Carolina bumped defensive line coach Todd Wash up to call defensive plays. NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo later confirmed that Cooley was out the door as well.

Evero had run the defense since 2023. His firing follows a series of rough outings for the unit, though the move still made plenty of people by surprise considering he interviewed for the Raiders’ head coaching gig just last offseason.

Carolina’s Defense Struggles Lead To Coaching Changes

Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard rushes the ball against the Green Bay Packers in the second half at Lambeau Field. (Photo By Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images)

Carolina’s defensive struggles played a major role in the decision. Evero’s unit finished last season ranked No. 16 in total yards allowed and No. 15 in points allowed. However, the defense has struggled to find consistency this season.

The Panthers entered Thursday night’s game against Green Bay after suffering a 43-13 loss. They needed a strong response against the Packers, but the defense failed to deliver.

Green Bay quarterback Jordan Love gave Carolina’s secondary another tough night. He threw for 288 yards and three touchdowns, putting more pressure on the Panthers’ defensive coaching staff.

Injuries have also created problems for the team. Carolina has lost cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Will Lee III, leaving the secondary with fewer options.

Still, the Panthers have managed to stay in the NFC South race. Despite losing back-to-back games, they remain tied for first place in the division.

Carolina now faces another important test next Sunday. The Panthers will host the Denver Broncos in Week 9. Walsh will take charge of the defensive play-calling as the team adjusts to the coaching changes.

The Panthers will hope the new setup can help turn things around before their defensive problems cost them more games.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: