Carolina Panthers Fire Defensive Coordinator Ejiro Evero After Loss to Packers

The Carolina Panthers have undergone a major shake-up in their coaching ranks, with Ejiro Evero being relieved of his position as defensive coordinator after the team's recent loss to the Green Bay Packers. The decision came following a 27-19 defeat on Thursday night, marking a pivotal moment in the Panthers' season.

Evero's departure is part of a broader trend of changes within the organization, with Todd Wash stepping into the role of interim defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season. This move signals a fresh approach from the Panthers, aiming to bolster their defensive performance as they face the upcoming challenges of the season.

The loss to the Packers highlighted some of the issues that plagued Evero's defense, which allowed 354 net yards and four touchdowns during the game. These struggles are part of a larger pattern; Evero's defense ranked poorly in rushing defense, placing 30th out of 32 teams, and 23rd overall in total defense through seven games of the season. Despite these rankings, there were signs of improvement with the addition of new players like Tre'von Moehrig, Nic Scourton, and Princely Umanmielen.

However, Evero's tenure was marked by significant defensive shortcomings. Since 2024, the Panthers' defense allowed a league-leading 12 games where opponents scored 200 or more rushing yards, six more than any other team. In 2024 alone, the defense allowed 31.4 points per game, ranking last in the NFL. Even in 2025, despite some improvements, the defense still allowed 27.6 points per game, placing 27th in the league.

These statistics underscore the challenges Evero faced, compounded by notable injuries to key players such as Jaycee Horn, Mike Jackson, and Akayleb Evans. The Panthers also suffered a significant blow in Week 7 when they lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 30 points, and in their 2026 opener, they conceded 59 points to the Chicago Bears.

Todd Wash, the new interim defensive coordinator, brings extensive experience to the table with 31 years of coaching under his belt. He previously led the Jacksonville Jaguars to the AFC Championship game in 2017, where the team boasted the second-ranked defense in the league that year. His appointment represents a promising shift for the Panthers, who now look towards their next game against the Denver Broncos, who currently hold a 5-2 record.

In addition to Evero, Jonathan Cooley, the Panthers' defensive passing game coordinator, reportedly also lost his job. This change in leadership comes at a critical time for the Panthers, as they seek to improve their defensive performance and secure better results in the coming weeks.

What we know

• Ejiro Evero was relieved of his position as defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers. ¹²³
• The decision came after the Panthers lost to the Green Bay Packers with a score of 27-19. ¹²³
• Todd Wash will serve as interim defensive coordinator for the remainder of the season. ¹²³
• Jonathan Cooley, the Panthers' defensive passing game coordinator, was also reportedly let go. ²³
• Evero's tenure lasted 59 games, with 10 matches remaining in the current season. ¹
• The Panthers' defense ranked poorly in rushing defense, 30th out of 32 teams, and 23rd in total defense through seven games of the season. ¹
• In the game against the Packers, the defense allowed 354 net yards and 4 touchdowns. ¹
• The Panthers' defense allowed 31.4 points per game in 2024, ranking last in the NFL. ³
• In 2025, the Panthers' defense allowed 23 points per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. ³
• This season, the Panthers' defense allowed 27.6 points per game, ranking 27th in the NFL. ³
• The Panthers' defense faced significant injuries, including Jaycee Horn, Mike Jackson, and Akayleb Evans. ³
• Todd Wash has 31 years of coaching experience and previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars. ³
• Under Todd Wash, the Jacksonville Jaguars had the second-ranked defense in the league in 2017 and reached the AFC Championship game. ³
• The Panthers lost to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers by 30 points in Week 7. ²
• The Panthers allowed 59 points in their 2026 opening game against the Chicago Bears. ²
• Jordan Love, the Packers' quarterback, threw for 288 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception in the game against the Panthers. ²
• Nic Scourton, Thomas Incoom, and Cam Jackson were also on injured reserve due to various injuries. ³
• AC Carter's responsibilities expanded to include coaching the defensive line. ³
• The Panthers next game is against the Denver Broncos, who have a record of 5-2. ³