Panthers HC Explains Reason for Firing DC Ejiro Evero

The Carolina Panthers have no intentions of waving the white flag on their season after losing 27–19 to the Green Bay Packers on "Thursday Night Football" in Week 8. 

On Friday, the Panthers fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero after his defense surrendered 354 total yards of offense to the Packers. 288 of those yards came via Jordan Love passing yards. The Panthers’ run defense, which had been criticized before Thursday night's game, allowed 66 yards on 26 carries.

When speaking to reporters on his reasoning for firing Evero, Panthers head coach Dave Canales said he wanted to do what was best for his 3–4 team. He wanted to put his defensive players in a position where they feel confident and connected. He wants to see his defense excited about playing and get his players and coaches on the same page.

Before firing Evero, Canales spoke with Panthers owner David Tepper, general manager Dan Morgan, and executive vice president Brandt Tilis.

Canales noted that Todd Walsh has been promoted to defensive coordinator. He believes Walsh will get the defense connected and will push them in the right direction.

The Panthers’ defense ranks No. 23 in yards per game given up (349.6).

Carolina was without several key players on the defense against Green Bay, including Jaelan Phillips, Mike Jackson, Nick Scourton, and Jaycee Horn.

The Panthers allowed the Philadelphia Eagles to score just two touchdowns in a 25-14 win in Week 6. But their lead in the NFC South has crumbled after losing two games in a row. They're tied for first place in the division with the Falcons at 3-4.

The Panthers suffered a 43-13 loss at home against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 22 of those points came off of offensive turnovers. While not all of the Panthers' recent problems can be pointed at the defense, Canales needed to send a message that something had to change.

The mini-bye provided the Panthers a chance to reset. Carolina will next host the Denver Broncos at home on Nov. 8. The defense should be fired up to prove a point against the Broncos in Week 9.

The Panthers are expected to get Jackson and Horn back at some point this season, which would be a huge boost for the secondary.

Evero was a head coaching candidate during the last offseason. His debut this season was underwhelming, as the Panthers gave up 59 points to the Chicago Bears in Week 1 in a loss. Carolina kept the Falcons to just three points in a win in Week 2.