The Carolina Panthers have parted ways with defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, the team announced. Defensive line coach Todd Wash has been appointed interim defensive coordinator and will call plays.
The coaching staff changes also include the departure of defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley.
These moves come after the Panthers’ 27-19 loss to the Green Bay Packers on Thursday night, which dropped their season record to 3-4. The team has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 27.6 points per game, ranking seventh-worst in the league.
Evero joined the Panthers in 2023. Wash also joined the team in 2023. Despite a lackluster performance in the NFC South division, the Panthers remain near the top of their division.
Injuries have impacted the team's defensive performance, with key players like Jaelan Phillips (hamstring) and Jaycee Horn (torn quad) sidelined. The secondary has been particularly affected, with the team reportedly down to its fifth and sixth options at cornerback. Evero had faced criticism for units appearing unprepared.
Wash brings extensive coaching experience, including 31 years overall and 20 in the NFL. He previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2016 to 2020, during which the team reached the AFC Championship Game in the 2017 season and ranked second in league defense. Outside linebackers coach and run game specialist AC Carter will assume additional responsibilities coaching the defensive line.
Wash's first game as interim defensive coordinator will be on November 8 when the Denver Broncos visit the Panthers.