Panthers Fire Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero

The Carolina Panthers have dismissed defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero following two high-scoring losses.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Football

Panthers Fire Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero

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Head coach Dave Canales announced that the Carolina Panthers have fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive pass game coordinator Jonathan Cooley. Todd Wash has been named the team's interim defensive coordinator.

Why it matters

The staff changes follow a difficult stretch for the defense, which surrendered 70 total points over the course of two losses in just four days.

The Carolina Panthers defense allowed 70 points across their most recent two games against the Green Bay Packers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. These losses occurred over a span of just four days.

The players

Ejiro Evero

He is the former defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers.

Todd Wash

He is the new interim defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers.

Dave Canales

He is the head coach of the Carolina Panthers who announced the coaching staff changes.

Jonathan Cooley

He is the former defensive pass game coordinator for the Carolina Panthers.

The details

Coach Canales confirmed that Jonathan Cooley was also relieved of his duties as the defensive pass game coordinator. Todd Wash assumes the defensive coordinator role immediately as the team looks to stabilize following the recent defensive struggles.

October 30, 2026: Dave Canales announced the firing of Ejiro Evero.

Season Trajectory

The decision to restructure the defensive staff reflects the volatility of the 2026 NFL coaching turnover cycle. These changes aim to reset the team's defensive identity as the season progresses past the midway point.

The transition to Todd Wash as interim defensive coordinator introduces a new play-calling strategy for the remainder of the schedule. This move could influence defensive player rotations and fantasy football projections for the Panthers' upcoming matchups.

The takeaway

Staff changes mid-season often signal a shift in defensive philosophy to correct high-scoring lapses. Fans should monitor the team's performance in upcoming games to see if the new coordinator can effectively reduce the points allowed.