In Charlotte, N.C., David Tepper, owner of the Carolina Panthers, dismissed coach Frank Reich on Monday. This decision came within a day of Tepper leaving the locker room, expressing frustration after Sunday’s 17-10 loss to the Tennessee Titans in Nashville.
Reich’s stint with Carolina concluded with an NFL-low 1-10 record, including a winless 0-6 record on away games. Notably, he becomes the first NFL head coach since the 1970 merger to be fired in consecutive seasons after his previous dismissal from the Indianapolis Colts.
Expressing his sentiments to The Charlotte Observer, Reich, with a career record of 41-43-1, voiced disappointment at not meeting the necessary standards for the team’s success, acknowledging the impact on players, coaches, and fans.
Tepper conveyed the decision in a face-to-face meeting with Reich on Monday morning, stating, “I want to thank Frank for his dedication and service, and we wish him well.”
Reich affirmed that his coaching journey wasn’t concluded but admitted that this could mark the final chapter of his NFL career.
In the interim, special teams coach Chris Tabor takes over as the interim head coach, while offensive coordinator Thomas Brown assumes playcalling responsibilities, supported by senior assistant Jim Caldwell.
Additional changes followed, including the dismissals of assistant head coach/running backs coach Duce Staley and quarterbacks coach Josh McCown.
Tepper scheduled a news conference for the following day, aiming to address the situation. However, there won’t be any team availability on Monday.
Reich’s termination stemmed from the team’s offensive struggles, notably scoring 15 or fewer points for five consecutive weeks and seven times in 11 games. Despite reclaiming playcalling duties, the offense faltered, scoring only 10 points in the last two games.
Despite the team’s performance, Reich expressed appreciation for Tepper and acknowledged the NFL’s competitive nature, understanding the standards required by Tepper professionally. He left on amicable terms with Tepper, acknowledging the owner’s high expectations.
Carolina’s performance this season marked their sixth consecutive losing season under Tepper’s ownership, reflecting a 30-63 (.323) record, second only to the New York Jets in terms of underperformance.
Reich’s firing reflects a trend in recent seasons, with only a handful of coaches not completing their inaugural season with a team.
Reich’s vision for the Panthers, particularly in developing rookie quarterback Bryce Young, didn’t materialize as expected. Young’s statistics have been underwhelming, prompting changes in coaching responsibilities.
Staley’s running game and the team’s struggle to fill their stadium due to fan dissatisfaction contributed to the decision.
Reich found solace in his past successes as a player and coach, understanding the complexities of NFL careers. This marks the second consecutive year Tepper has dismissed a head coach mid-season.
Despite the disappointing end, Reich expressed optimism for the team’s future and concluded with a message of continued support for the Panthers, signifying the end of his coaching journey in Carolina.
