CHARLOTTE, N.C. — New Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales arrived in Charlotte Wednesday, according to the team.
The Panthers posted a video on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, showing Canales and new general manager Dan Morgan exiting a private plane just before noon on Wednesday. Canales was officially named the Panthers' head coach on Jan. 25.
"All smiles," the post reads. "He's here!!"
Canales spent one season as the offensive coordinator in Tampa Bay, helping former Carolina quarterback Baker Mayfield experience the season of his career en route to the NFC South championship and a playoff victory over Philadelphia. Canales reportedly signed a six-year contract with the Panthers.
Canales and Morgan will be formally introduced to Panthers fans and media at a news conference on Thursday. Canales is the fifth Hispanic head coach in NFL history. Of the other four, Ron Rivera coached the Panthers from 2011 to 2019.
"Dave's background is rooted in success," David Tepper, the Panthers owner, 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."
Morgan needs little introduction. He spent the majority of his playing career in Carolina before retiring due to injuries. He's spent the last three seasons as the team's assistant general manager. Prior to that, he and Canales worked together in Seattle.
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