A Streich-Out in Carolina

11/28/2023

By: Jeff Yoder

Panthers Oust Head Coach Frank Reich After 1-10 Start, And Carolina’s Rebuild Hits the Reset Button

Frank Reich’s run as the head coach of the Carolina Panthers is officially over after just 11 games. In a swift move, Panthers owner David Tepper ousted Reich on Monday less than 24 hours after he was spotted leaving the locker room and muttering expletives following a 17-10 loss to the Titans. The Panthers are a league-worst 1-10, and rookie QB Bryce Young — last year’s No. 1 overall pick — hasn’t exactly met expectations. The Panthers also traded this year’s would-be No. 1 pick to move up and select Young last season. And while Reich’s run as a head coach hasn’t produced results, he’s still a solid coach who could be coveted for many coordinator roles.

Carolina’s Streich-Out: Monday’s announcement was historic as it signaled the first time since the 1970 merger that an NFL coach was fired in back-to-back seasons. Reich was discharged as the Colts head coach last season. He’s also just the six coach since 1970 to be fired before finishing Year 1 with a new team. The Panthers also fired quarterbacks coach Josh McCown and running backs coach Duce Staley. It’s an offense overhaul. Special teams coach Chris Tabor will serve as the interim head coach.

2023 In-Season Firings: Reich joins Josh McDaniels (Raiders) on this year’s list of in-season coaching exits. Expect more coaching vacancies in the next month.

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