Panthers go through initial round of interviews with potential OC candidates

As the Carolina Panthers work to find a new offensive coordinator, they’re getting through their first round of interviews. According to multiple reports, they’ve interviewed two candidates so far.

Indianapolis Colts wide receivers coach Mike Groh and Minnesota Vikings offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak conducted virtual interviews with the Panthers. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport first reported the interviews took place.

Groh has been with the Colts since 2020 after two years as the Philadelphia Eagles’ offensive coordinator. After coaching in college from 2001-12, he’s bee in the NFL coaching ranks since 2013.

Kubiak started with the Vikings as quarterbacks coach in 2019 before moving to offensive coordinator this season. He also worked as an offensive assistant under his dad, Gary, with the Denver Broncos before heading to Minnesota.

The Panthers have been working to replace Brady, whom they let go in December. Pep Hamilton is also reportedly a potential candidate, as are Bill O’Brien and Jay Gruden.

Possible Panthers offensive coordinator candidates revealed

The Panthers are on the hunt for a new offensive coordinator. With first-time NFL offensive coordinator not working out with head coach Matt Rhule, ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed experience will be key in Carolina’s search.

“Carolina is expected to target former NFL head coaches Jay Gruden and Bill O’Brien in its search for a new offensive coordinator, per league sources,” tweeted Schefter. “Carolina also expected to be interested in talking with Rams’ OC Kevin O’Connell.”

Throughout the season, questions have surrounded Rhule and his ability as a coach in the NFL. Evidently, the franchise believes a coach with experience as a head coach in the league can help him grow. Gruden was the leader of the Washington Football Team, while O’Brien spent multiple years as the head coach of the Houston Texans.

Moreover, O’Connell was a sought-after offensive coordinator candidate after he was let-go by Washington due to Gruden’s firing. Sean McVay may be the big cheese when it comes to the Rams offense, but O’Connell has helped get the most out of quarterback Matt Stafford in 2021.

After starting the season with three straight wins, the Panthers have gone through a terrible stretch. With their final game of the season coming against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the 5-11 Panthers will attempt to end their season with a shocking upset.