Dave Canales' growth may guide the Panthers' next step

Players and staff say second-year coach Dave Canales expanded his involvement beyond the offense this season, and the Panthers reached the playoffs but lost a 34-31 wild-card game to the Los Angeles Rams.

Second-year head coach Dave Canales drew attention this season for expanding his role beyond offensive playcalling and engaging with special teams and defensive staff. Long-snapper JJ Jansen and other players noted Canales attending special teams meetings, taking notes and connecting across phases. Canales has cited advice from senior coaching advisor Jim Caldwell as part of that shift. The Panthers returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2017 but lost a wild-card game to the Los Angeles Rams, 34-31. Key facts: - JJ Jansen said he noticed Canales sitting in the back of special teams meetings and talking with coordinator Tracy Smith. - Canales was hired in 2024 and spent much of his first season focused on developing the offense and quarterback Bryce Young. - Jim Caldwell is listed as a senior coaching advisor who offered guidance on taking a broader team view. - The Panthers clinched the NFC South but lost their wild-card playoff game to the Los Angeles Rams, 34-31. - Left tackle Ickem Ekwonu suffered a ruptured patella tendon in the loss, and the team also has noted needs at outside and possibly middle linebacker after ranking 22nd in sacks. - Carolina's defense improved from its 2024 standings to finish 15th in scoring defense and 16th in total defense this season. Summary: Players and coaches describe visible growth in Canales' approach as he broadened his attention beyond the offense, and that shift is cited as part of a team culture change during a season that ended in a wild-card loss. Roster questions remain entering the offseason, including the recovery timeline for Ickem Ekwonu and the need to address pass rush and linebacker depth. The team's next phase centers on offseason roster decisions and player health updates.