BREAKING NEWS: The Panthers are set to name Dave Canales from the Buccaneers as their new head coach.

The Carolina Panthers are set to appoint Dave Canales, the current offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as their new head coach, according to sources cited by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. While the specific terms of Canales’ contract are yet to be finalized, the Panthers are optimistic about the impact he can have on quarterback Bryce Young, drawing parallels with his successful coaching of Russell Wilson, Geno Smith, and Baker Mayfield.

Canales recently underwent his second interview with the Panthers in Charlotte, meeting with key figures such as team owner David Tepper, newly appointed general manager Dan Morgan, and other members of the search committee. Morgan, who had an eight-year tenure with Canales on the Seattle Seahawks’ staff, played a crucial role in the decision, given his familiarity with Canales and their shared history under former Seattle head coach Pete Carroll.

Canales’ coaching history includes serving as the passing game coordinator for the Seahawks in 2020, contributing to Russell Wilson’s career-best performance. In 2022, as the quarterbacks coach for Seattle, he played a role in Geno Smith’s impressive season. This past season, as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Canales contributed to Baker Mayfield’s career-high statistics.

Upon assuming the head coaching position for the Panthers, Canales will be tasked with overseeing the development of Bryce Young, the top pick in the 2023 NFL draft. Despite Young’s challenging rookie season, the Panthers are optimistic about Canales’ ability to make a positive impact on the young quarterback.

The Panthers had initially targeted Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, as their top choice. However, Johnson showed a preference for other opportunities, particularly with the Washington Commanders, even though he hails from the Carolinas. Johnson’s availability for an in-person interview was also delayed until after the NFC Championship Game against the San Francisco 49ers.