Is Dave Canales the Favorite to Land the Panthers' Job?

Carolina's coaching search is entering its second phase with a possible frontrunner.

Author:
Schuyler Callihan
Jan 24, 2024 11:35 AM EST

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Dave Canales has successfully helped turn around the careers of Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield which has put him in a great spot to land the head coaching job with the Carolina Panthers.

The search for a new head coach hasn't completely focused on the offensive side of the ball, but it makes sense for the Panthers to lean in that direction given how much they've invested into Bryce Young. The organization has to get this hire right or it could set them back several years, essentially starting all over...again.

On Monday, Dan Morgan was hired as Carolina's President of Football Operations/General Manager and today, he'll be meeting with an old colleague of his, Dave Canales, for a second interview for the head coaching position. Los Angeles Rams defensive coordinator Raheem Morris is also set to interview for a second time today, meanwhile Panthers' defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero had his second go around on Monday.

Morgan and Canales spent eight seasons together in Seattle and have kept in touch ever since. Although the Panthers could wait another week to make a decision, Canales could be handed the job if he makes a strong enough case to win over ownership. Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and Texas offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik have interviewed for the position, but there haven't been any reports of a second interview.

Johnson has been tied to the Washington Commanders job for quite some time and many believe that's where he will land. If that's the case, Canales would be the odds-on favorite in Carolina, in my opinion.

Canales' history/relationship with Morgan alongside his strong body of work with quarterbacks make him the ideal guy for the job. This season, he helped Baker Mayfield to a career year where he threw for 4,044 yards and 28 touchdowns en route to an NFC South division title.