Ejiro Evero Unveils His Make-or-Break Plan to Rescue Panthers Defense in 2025
Ejiro Evero knows better than anyone that the Carolina Panthers’ defense must make major strides in 2025 — his job could depend on it.
Following one of the worst defensive seasons in NFL history, Evero found himself under heavy fire. His unit gave up more points than any team ever had in a single season, while also surrendering over 3,000 rushing yards. With limited talent and a lack of depth across the board, the Panthers’ defense simply couldn’t compete — and they paid the price.
Some fans were calling for a change at defensive coordinator. Just a year ago, Evero was viewed as a rising star and a head coaching prospect. This offseason, he didn’t receive a single interview. Still, newly appointed head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan gave him a strong vote of confidence, choosing to retain him and trust in his defensive vision.
The new regime believes Evero’s 3-4 scheme can still succeed — but only with the right players in place. That belief drove their offseason moves, adding key pieces through free agency and the draft to address glaring weaknesses. With those reinforcements now on board, Evero has no margin for error.
As he looks to turn things around, Evero has laid out a clear strategy: build toughness in the trenches and adapt the scheme to better fit the current roster. “Every year we try to improve, regardless of last season’s results,” Evero said via Panthers.com. “This league forces you to evolve. We know we need to play better up front, and that starts with coaching better, being more physical, and setting the tone early.”
That physicality was sorely lacking in 2024. Opponents ran through Carolina’s defense with ease, and only the late-season improvement from quarterback Bryce Young kept the team from hitting rock bottom.
Morgan aggressively addressed those issues, bringing in defensive linemen Tershawn Wharton, Bobby Brown III, and rookie Cam Jackson. The edge rushers — including Patrick Jones II, Nic Scourton, and Princely Umanmielen — add speed and bite. Safety Tre’von Moehrig offers versatility and leadership in the secondary.
Now it’s on Evero to mold these players into a cohesive unit. If he doesn’t, the Panthers could be looking for a new defensive coordinator when 2026 rolls around.