Panthers fire defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The Carolina Panthers fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley following a 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers, with defensive line coach Todd Wash named interim DC.
- The decision came after a series of poor defensive performances, including a 30-point loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and allowing a franchise-record 59 points in the season opener against the Chicago Bears.
- Despite strong pass defense rankings since 2023, Evero's unit struggled overall, ranking last or near last in key defensive categories such as points allowed, rush yards allowed, third-down conversion rate, and red zone touchdown rate.
- Injuries to key cornerbacks Jaycee Horn, Mike Jackson, and Akayleb Evans further hampered the Panthers' defensive performance in the recent loss to Green Bay.
- The Panthers allowed Packers quarterback Jordan Love to throw for 288 yards and three touchdowns against a weak rushing offense, highlighting ongoing defensive vulnerabilities.
