Charlotte, N.C.

The Carolina Panthers are close to appointing a new head coach.

According to reports, the Panthers are nearing the hiring of Dave Canales as a replacement for interim coach Chris Tabor.

On Thursday, NFL expert Ian Rapoport shared on social media that Canales, who had previously served as offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023 and helped them secure their third consecutive NFC South title, had also spent 13 years in various positions with the Seattle Seahawks where he played a crucial role in their Super Bowl victory and two NFC championship wins.

The Bucs reached the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs, where they were eliminated in a 31-23 defeat to the Detroit Lions on Sunday. In a Wild Card clash with the defending champion Philadelphia Eagles, Tampa Bay prevailed 32-9.

The Panthers have experienced significant changes in their head coach position in the past year. Frank Reich was appointed to the role on Jan. 26, 2023, but was let go after Week 12 due to the team’s poor record of 1-10. Tabor took over for the remaining games and the Panthers ended the season with a 2-15 record.

The announcement was made a few days following the selection of Dan Morgan as the team’s new general manager on Monday.

Source: wralsportsfan.com