New reports seem to point toward Frank Reich being the odds-on favorite to be the next head coach of the Carolina Panthers.
Following a 7-10 finish to the 2022-2023 season, the Carolina Panthers moved their streak of losing seasons to five. That is certainly not what owner David Tepper was hoping for when he purchased the team in 2018. Oddly enough, this came right after the team’s last winning season.
As the franchise’s boss, Tepper has known nothing but losing and he wants to change that, and now. That is why he fired Matt Rhule as head coach during the season and is searching high and low for an individual that can finally bring a winning culture back to Carolina.
Also Read: Bengals and Chiefs superstars among 2022 NFL MVP finalists
Over the last few weeks, the team has spoken to retired head coach Sean Payton, top coordinators Mike Kafka and Ken Dorsey, interim HC Steve Wilks, and former Colts head coach Frank Reich. However, new speculation seems to suggest one of those men may have a leg up on their fellow candidates.
Frank Reich set for second interview with Carolina Panthers
It was reported that the Carolina Panthers are set to begin second interviews this week with top candidates, and Reich is scheduled for his today.
Following the news, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport revealed on Wednesday that the organization “will focus on an experienced HC coach if possible and Frank Reich and Steve Wilks both fit the bill.”
- Frank Reich record (Indianapolis Colts): 40-33-1
CBS Sports NFL insider Josina Anderson confirmed that preference today, while also adding to the idea of Frank Reich being a top choice to land the job.
“I’m told the Panthers already have explored possible staff scenarios w/ Frank Reich, prior to today, per league source. From the beginning, ownership expressed interest in an experienced HC with an offensive background, before allowing process to unfold. Initial mindset may prevail.”
– Report on Panthers HC search
Before being dismissed during the season after four and half years as the Colts’ head coach, Reich served as an offensive coordinator for two years each with the then-San Diego Chargers and Philadelphia Eagles.
Steve Wilks, another strong candidate for the head coach has a background as a defensive coordinator, including for the Panthers in 2022-2023.