The Carolina Panthers are still going to need time to heal from owner David Tepper’s first “guy,” as Matt Rhule left quite the scar in his few short years. But, if Tuesday’s introductory press conference is any indication, the new guy is going to help speed up the healing process.
Panthers head coach Frank Reich exuded both a quiet confidence and a great deal of humility during his first public sermon for Carolina—showing a warm brand of experience that was previously lacking in his predecessor. His willingness to acknowledge his past mistakes, trust the process in front of him and allow organizational power to general manager Scott Fitterer was a refreshing tone to what they had previously in the building—one that lacked accountability and balance.
Another point of emphasis was his background in musical chairs at the under center—a sick game both he and the Panthers experienced simultaneously dating back to 2018. Reich, from his knowledge, expressed the need for stability at the most important position in football—where both sides suffered mightily after the respective departures of Andrew Luck and Cam Newton.
It has to be a sigh of relief to all fans that Reich and Fitterer have a plan going forward in how to definitively attack the problem—as opposed to trotting out a new quarterback every year. His acknowledgement of wanting to work with Fitterer to solve it and his experience as sort of a quarterback guru lends assurance that they will end up on the right signal caller.
Reich’s stance on the offensive side of the ball, once again, exuded the same confidence and humility that the entire press conference seemed to pick up. While he did not rule out assuming play-calling duties himself, he still expressed his excitement for following through with the process of building his staff.
Part of being a strong leader is, in fact, allowing yourself to lean on the people around you—and his willingness to collaborate is a breath of fresh air. His experience as a creative play caller will allow for a lot of flexibility, and for a smart and consistent approach on offense—for whoever fills that coordinator role.
After experiencing three years of a hectic reign from Rhule, Reich’s coolness should be nothing short of soothing for this franchise. His poise and humbleness should stretch on throughout his tenure—to the locker room, front office, ownership, and, hopefully, the fan base.
