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Ejiro Evero is no longer the Carolina Panthers’ defensive coordinator after head coach Dave Canales announced significant changes to the team’s defensive coaching staff on Friday, Oct. 30, 2026.
The Panthers are parting ways with Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley. The move comes as Carolina looks for a new direction on defense and attempts to create more stability during the season.
Breaking Change: Ejiro Evero Out in Carolina
Evero had served as the Panthers’ defensive coordinator, overseeing a unit responsible for stopping opposing offenses and creating consistent pressure. Carolina’s decision to move on represents one of the most notable coaching changes of the season for the franchise.
Canales will now turn to defensive line coach Todd Wash, who has been named interim defensive coordinator. Wash will also call the defensive plays, giving him immediate control over the team’s defensive strategy, game planning and in-game adjustments.
The Panthers did not announce a permanent replacement for Evero. For now, Wash will be tasked with guiding the defense while the organization evaluates its next steps.
Todd Wash Brings Powerful NFL Experience
Wash originally joined the Panthers’ coaching staff in 2023. He brings 31 years of coaching experience to the interim role, including 20 seasons in the NFL.
His previous experience as a defensive coordinator could prove valuable during the transition. Wash served as the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defensive coordinator from 2016 through 2020. His most successful season came in 2017, when Jacksonville finished with the league’s second-ranked defense and advanced to the AFC Championship Game.
That background gives Wash familiarity with the responsibilities that come with leading an entire defensive unit. He will now be expected to translate that experience to Carolina quickly, with the Panthers needing clear communication and consistent execution from their players.
- New interim defensive coordinator: Todd Wash
- Defensive playcaller: Todd Wash
- Departing coaches: Ejiro Evero and Jonathan Cooley
- Wash’s coaching experience: 31 years, including 20 in the NFL
- Previous coordinator role: Jacksonville Jaguars, 2016–2020
Panthers Adjust Defensive Coaching Responsibilities
The changes extend beyond the coordinator position. Outside linebackers coach and run game specialist AC Carter will expand his responsibilities to include coaching the defensive line.
Carter’s expanded role is especially important because Wash will be moving into a broader leadership position. The adjustment allows the Panthers to maintain continuity along the defensive front while Wash focuses on coordinating the entire unit and calling plays.
Secondary coach Renaldo Hill will continue overseeing the defensive backs. Keeping Hill in that role provides some consistency for the Panthers’ secondary during a broader defensive shake-up.
The new structure places key responsibilities with coaches who are already familiar with Carolina’s players and systems. That could help reduce disruption, although the Panthers will still need to adapt quickly under a new playcaller.
What Ejiro Evero’s Departure Means for Carolina
Evero’s departure creates immediate questions about the Panthers’ defensive identity. Under Wash, Carolina could introduce tactical changes involving pressure packages, coverage assignments, front-seven alignments and third-down strategy.
The interim arrangement also gives Canales and the Panthers’ football operations group an opportunity to evaluate how the defense responds to new leadership. Strong performances could strengthen Wash’s case for consideration beyond the interim period, while continued struggles could lead to a wider search for a permanent defensive coordinator.
For the players, the priority will be learning how Wash wants the defense to operate. Clear communication will be essential, particularly in the secondary and along the defensive line. Carter and Hill will also play important roles in helping their position groups adjust.
There is no indication in the announcement that the Panthers have made changes to the rest of the defensive staff beyond Evero, Cooley and the expanded responsibilities assigned to Wash, Carter and Hill. The team’s immediate focus will be on preparing for its next game and building a dependable defensive approach.
Panthers Face an Urgent Defensive Test
The coaching change gives Carolina a chance to reset, but it also places pressure on the Panthers to show progress quickly. Wash must balance familiarity with creativity as he takes over playcalling duties, while Canales will oversee the broader transition.
Fans will be watching for signs of improvement in tackling, pressure production, coverage discipline and late-game execution. The Panthers’ defensive response in the coming weeks should offer an early indication of whether the coaching change can provide the spark the team is seeking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Panthers part ways with Ejiro Evero?
The Panthers announced that they were parting ways with Evero as part of changes to the defensive coaching staff. The team did not provide additional details in the announcement.
Who is replacing Ejiro Evero?
Defensive line coach Todd Wash has been named Carolina’s interim defensive coordinator. He will also call the defensive plays.
What is Todd Wash’s coaching background?
Wash has 31 years of coaching experience, including 20 years in the NFL. He previously served as the Jacksonville Jaguars’ defensive coordinator from 2016 through 2020.
What changes were made to the rest of the defensive staff?
AC Carter will add defensive line responsibilities to his existing role as outside linebackers coach and run game specialist. Renaldo Hill will continue overseeing the defensive backs.
