The Carolina Panthers have made a major midseason coaching change, firing defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley following another disappointing defensive performance.

Head coach Dave Canales announced the shakeup Friday, October 30, turning to veteran defensive line coach Todd Wash as interim defensive coordinator. Wash will assume defensive play-calling responsibilities as Carolina attempts to salvage its season.

The moves come less than 24 hours after the Panthers suffered a 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday Night Football, dropping Carolina to 3-4.

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Canales Makes Major Defensive Changes

The decision represents a significant change in direction for a Panthers defense that has struggled to find consistency under Evero.

Carolina has surrendered 193 points through seven games, an average of 27.6 per contest, ranking among the NFL’s least effective scoring defenses.

The Panthers have been particularly vulnerable against the run, including a disastrous performance against Tampa Bay in which they allowed 258 rushing yards.

Thursday’s loss to Green Bay highlighted another concern. Although Carolina held the Packers to just 66 rushing yards, quarterback Jordan Love threw three touchdown passes, while Green Bay converted nine of 16 third-down opportunities.

Those inconsistencies ultimately preceded Canales’ decision to overhaul his defensive coaching staff.

Todd Wash Brings NFL Play-Calling Experience

Wash, who joined the Panthers in 2023, brings 31 years of coaching experience, including 20 seasons in the NFL.

His most notable work came with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he served as defensive coordinator from 2016 through 2020.

In 2017, Wash directed a Jacksonville defense that ranked second in the NFL and helped lead the Jaguars to the AFC Championship Game.

That unit became known for its aggressive pass rush, physical secondary and ability to generate turnovers.

Carolina will now look to Wash to bring greater consistency and accountability to a defense that has struggled despite possessing talented players.

More Responsibilities for Carter and Hill

The changes extend beyond the defensive coordinator position.

Outside linebackers coach and run game specialist AC Carter will expand his responsibilities to include coaching the defensive line, taking over duties previously handled by Wash.

Meanwhile, secondary coach Renaldo Hill will continue overseeing Carolina’s defensive backs following Cooley’s departure.

The adjustments allow Canales to promote experienced assistants already familiar with the team’s personnel and defensive structure rather than bringing in outside coaches midway through the season.

Panthers Face Critical Stretch

Carolina enters its next game against the Denver Broncos on November 8 with additional preparation time following Thursday’s loss.

That extended break gives Wash an opportunity to evaluate personnel, adjust defensive responsibilities and establish his approach before taking over play-calling duties.

The decision also signals that Canales is unwilling to let the Panthers’ defensive struggles continue without significant changes.

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Carolina remains in the NFC South race, but its chances of remaining competitive will depend heavily on whether the defense can become more reliable.

Wash now inherits that challenge, with the immediate task of turning a struggling unit into one capable of supporting the Panthers’ offense.

For Canales, the message is unmistakable: the status quo on defense was no longer acceptable.