Panthers name former Chiefs exec Brandt Tilis Executive VP of Football Operations

The Carolina Panthers announced Wednesday they’ve named former Kansas City Chiefs executive Brandt Tilis as their new Executive Vice President of Football Operations.

Tilis will serve under newly hired President of Football Operations/General Manager, Dan Morgan. Tilis will be responsible for all football administration and non-coaching matters related to operations, equipment, video, and analytics, among other areas. He will also lead player contract negotiations, compliance with the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement and league rules, salary cap management, and maintenance and labor administration, per the team release.

“It’s great to add Brandt and his experience to our organization,” Morgan said in a statement. “He comes from a championship-caliber team in Kansas City and will play a lead role in our front office. We are looking forward to getting him here and working together to build this team.”

Tilis spent 14 seasons in Kansas City’s front office, the last three as Vice President of Football Operations. Among his most notable work — creating the structure to allow the Chiefs to sign quarterback Patrick Mahomes a record-breaking 10-year, $450 million contract extension in 2020.

Panthers overhaul coaching staff ahead of 2024 season

Tilis and co. will hit the ground running in 2024, looking to rebuild a Panthers team which finished 2-15 last season. Carolina filled its head coaching vacancy this past Thursday, hiring former Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Dave Canales. The 42-year-old spent one season in Tampa Bay, a season in which the Buccaneers won the NFC South. The Buccaneers finished 23rd in yards per game (313.0) and 20th in points per game (20.5).

Prior to his season-long stop in Tampa Bay, Canales spent over a decade with the Seattle Seahawks across several roles. That includes two stints as quarterbacks coach from 2018-19 and again during the 2022 season. He spent 2020-21 as head coach Pete Carroll’s passing game coordinator. In fact, he followed Carroll from USC to the pros when he made the jump before the 2010 season.

That time he spent in Seattle saw him work alongside new Panthers president of football operations/general manager Dan Morgan.

“I’m excited to work alongside Dave again,” Morgan said. “His background coaching multiple position groups has given him a great understanding of what it takes to build a successful team. His infectious personality resonates with players and everyone who comes in contact with him. I’m confident that will translate to the field.”