The Carolina Panthers are making a major change to their coaching staff after another disappointing defensive performance. Carolina fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley on Friday, Oct. 30, following the team’s 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers.
The move comes as the Panthers attempt to turn their season around after falling to 3-4. Defensive line coach Todd Wash will take over as interim defensive coordinator and handle the defensive play-calling duties.
Defensive Struggles Cost Evero His Job
Evero had been with Carolina since 2023, initially joining the staff under former head coach Frank Reich before remaining with the organization when Dave Canales took over in 2024.
Although the defense showed improvement last season, Carolina’s struggles returned during the 2026 campaign. The Panthers entered the week ranked 22nd in total defense and last in the NFL against the run.
The team’s problems have been particularly noticeable in recent weeks. Carolina surrendered 59 points in its season opening loss to the Chicago Bears before allowing 43 points against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last week.
Against Green Bay, the defense once again struggled to contain the opposing offense. Packers quarterback Jordan Love completed 30 of 41 passes for 288 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.
Those performances ultimately led the organization to make a change.
Todd Wash Takes Over
Wash now faces the challenge of getting Carolina’s defense back on track. He joined the Panthers’ coaching staff in 2023 and brings 31 years of coaching experience, including 20 seasons in the NFL.
Wash previously served as defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2016 through 2020. His Jacksonville defense finished second in the NFL in 2017, helping the team reach the AFC Championship Game.
Carolina will hope he can bring some stability to a unit that has struggled to consistently stop both the run and the pass.
Can Carolina Save Its Season?
The Panthers remain in the hunt in the NFC South despite their 3-4 record, but defensive improvement will be essential if they hope to compete for a playoff spot.
Firing Evero represents a significant decision for Canales, especially after the organization extended the coordinator’s contract through the 2027 season earlier this year.
Now, the Panthers must determine whether Wash can turn around the defense quickly enough to keep their playoff hopes alive.
