Panthers hiring Bucs' Canales as head coach

The Carolina Panthers hired Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive coordinator Dave Canales as their next new head coach, the team announced Thursday.

"Dave's background is rooted in success," Panthers owner David Tepper said in a statement. "He has an innovative mindset and positive energy that connects well with players and staff. We are impressed with his ability to bring out the best in players."

Carolina is giving Canales a six-year contract, sources told Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Canales' work with quarterback Baker Mayfield during his first year as an NFL offensive coordinator stood out to the Panthers, per Rapoport. Mayfield threw for 4,044 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while completing 64.3% of his passes this season. The yardage, touchdown, and completion percentage marks all represent career highs for the former No. 1 overall pick.

Overall, Tampa Bay's offense averaged 313 yards and 20.5 points per game in 2023. Those marks ranked 23rd and 20th, respectively.

Canales spent 2023 with the Buccaneers after working with the Seattle Seahawks from 2010-2022. He began his NFL coaching career as a wide receivers coach before acting as Seattle's quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator.

The 42-year-old Canales will now work with 2023 No. 1 pick Bryce Young in Carolina. Young struggled in his first year as a pro, throwing for 2,877 yards with 11 touchdowns against 10 interceptions on 59.8% passing in 16 games.

Canales and new Panthers general manager Dan Morgan both worked for the Seahawks from 2010-17.

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