In a surprising move to shake up their struggling season, the Carolina Panthers have parted ways with head coach Frank Reich, just months after hiring him.
Sitting at 1-10, Carolina has shown little-to-no signs of life or improvement, and owner David Tepper has decided to pull the plug.
Now, the attention turns to who will be the next (permanent) head coach in Carolina.
Well, a former Panthers legend has reportedly thrown his hat in the ring for consideration … According to The Athletic, 38-year-old Greg Olsen has expressed his desire to interview for the position.
Greg Olsen would be open to making the transition to coach. 😲 pic.twitter.com/BX3FH3tg7F
— theScore (@theScore) November 27, 2023
Retiring in 2020, Olsen’s most productive years in the NFL were spent in Carolina … He made three Pro Bowls (and two All Pro teams) during his nine-year tenure with the Panthers.
Of course, Olsen is staying busy these days with his FOX Sports duties where he is the lead color analyst for the network’s NFL coverage.
(However, the plan is for him to be pushed to the “B team” next season when Tom Brady joins the crew.)
Although unconventional, Olsen’s interest in the coaching role follows the recent dismissal of quarterbacks coach Josh McCown, who, despite having only high school coaching experience, previously interviewed for head coaching positions with the Texans.
Olsen’s coaching experience is limited to youth football, where he teamed up on the sidelines with former Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly.
(By the way: Who says no to this coaching staff?!?)…
Greg Olsen – HC
Cam Newton – OC/QB coach
Jonathan Stewart – RB coach
Steve Smith – WR coach
Jordan Gross – OL coach
Luke Kuechly – DC
Charles Johnson – DL coach
Thomas Davis – LB coach
Ricky Manning Jr – CB coach
Tre Boston – S coach
JJ Jansen – Special teamsWho says no?
— Panthers On Tap (@PanthersOnTap) November 27, 2023
What do you make of Olsen’s interest in the Panthers opening?
Do you think this is where the NFL is heading – with young, recently-retired players (with little-to-no coaching experience) being seriously considered for head coaching opportunities???