Frank Reich had a tenure with the Carolina Panthers that lasted only 11 games.
Carolina fired him on Monday after a 1-10 start to the 2023 season, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapport and Tom Pelissero reported, via sources informed of the situation.
Special teams coordinator Chris Tabor will take over as the interim head coach, according to Rapoport.
The club later confirmed the move, announcing senior assistant Jim Caldwell will act as a special advisor to offensive coordinator Thomas Brown, who will begin play-calling.
“I met with Coach Reich this morning and informed him that he will not continue as head coach of the Carolina Panthers,” owner David Tepper said in a statement on Monday. “I want to thank Frank for his dedication and service, and we wish him well. Effective immediately, Special Teams Coordinator Chris Tabor will serve as our interim head coach. Senior Assistant Jim Caldwell will be a special advisor to Offensive Coordinator Thomas Brown, who will take over play calling duties.”
Reich has had a rough season in Carolina as the Panthers showed poor signs of growth. Things escalated after several in-game mismanagement issues in Sunday’s 17-10 loss to the Tennesse Titans.
The issues were enough grounds for Tepper to be done with Frank Reich after only 11 matches.
Reich’s offense has been difficult, weighed down by poor blocking, a non-existent run game, and a receiver crew lacking in playmakers. Worst of all were the struggles of No.1 overall pick Bryce Young. The quarterback has shown poor habits amid the losses and rarely displays playmaking ability. Frank assigning play-calling to Brown and then taking them back did not help Carolina’s inconsistent offense.
Considering the amount the Panthers invested in Young, including conceding 2024 first-round pick, which presently sits No.1 overall, watching the young signal-caller make progress is essential in the final six matches. Ownership obviously did not believe the development would come with Reich in charge. Now it is up to Brow and Caldwell to change the story of Carolina during the season.
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