CHARLOTTE, N.C. — We heard publicly from the Panthers' newly appointed General Manager and Head Coach for the first time since accepting their positions.
The team agreed to terms with Buccaneers offensive coordinator Dave Canales, 42, as the seventh head coach in franchise history.
Canales was previously with the Seattle Seahawks for 12 years, where he filled many coaching roles for the offense.
"Dave's background is rooted in success, "Panthers owner David Tepper said. "He has an innovative mindset and positive energy that connects well with players and staff."
Coming on the heels of Tom Brady's retirement in Tampa, Canales arrived this year alongside quarterback Baker Mayfield and helped lead them to an NFC South title and a playoff win.
"We need to get that excitement back here," Dave Canales said during Thursday's press conference.
The Panthers are bringing a familiar face to their front office.
Dan Morgan, 45, spent seven seasons as a linebacker for the Panthers after being selected in the first round of the 2001 draft. He started his post-playing career with the Seattle Seahawks in 2010 as an intern and was later pronounced during the Seahawks' Super Bowl run to director of pro personnel.
Canales and Morgan spent 8 years working alongside in Seattle.
"I'm excited to work alongside Dave again," Morgan said.
Morgan, who has spent the past three seasons as the Panthers' assistant GM, will oversee the personnel operation.
"Dan has a thorough knowledge of our football personnel and a clear vision to take us where we all want to go," Tepper said. "We know he will attack this opportunity with the same intensity he did as a Panthers player."
The Panthers are 31-68 since Tepper bought the team in 2018, tied with the New York Jets for the worst record in the league, according to the Associated Press. They have not been to the postseason since 2017 and have been criticized for poor trades and draft picks in recent years.
The full press conference is available on YouTube and WFMY+.
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