Reports indicate that the Carolina Panthers are nearing a deal to hire Buccaneers offensive coordinator Dave Canales as their next head coach. Canales was not among the favorites for the position, surprising many. The Panthers fired first-year coach Frank Reich midway through the season after finishing with an NFL-worst record. The team interviewed several notable candidates for the job, including Dan Quinn and Ben Johnson, but ultimately chose Canales. Canales, a former assistant strength coach for USC, made the leap to the NFL in 2010 with the Seahawks. He joined the Buccaneers as their offensive coordinator in 2023 and helped guide them to an NFC South title. Canales will now have the opportunity to work with last year's first-overall pick, Bryce Young, who struggled at times this season. The Panthers are hoping that Canales can help Young reach his potential and turn the team's fortunes around.