The Carolina Panthers have themselves a new defensive coordinator, at least for the time being.
On Friday morning, the team announced that they have parted ways with Ejiro Evero. The firing caps off a turbulent four-year ride for Evero—who, as of the beginning of Week 8, has orchestrated the NFL's sixth-worst scoring defense.
Taking over as interim defensive coordinator is Todd Wash, who has served as Carolina's defensive line coach since 2023.
So, what should you know about the Panthers' newest play-caller?
For starters, this won't be Wash's first time in this position. He was the defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2016 to 2020.
The Jags would rank sixth, second, fifth, 24th and 31st in total defense in each of those campaigns—respectively.
Their strength under Wash came as a pass defense—ranking fifth, first and second over his first three years.
In addition to his stint in Jacksonville, Wash has been a defensive line coach in Tampa Bay (2008 to 2010), Seattle (2011 to 2012) and Detroit (2021 to 2022). His time with the Seahawks overlapped with those of Panthers general manager Dan Morgan and head coach Dave Canales.
As for his scheme preferences, Wash ran a 4-3 base with the Jaguars and has a history with Tampa 2. The Panthers have fielded a 3-4 base under Evero, but a change in scheme eight weeks into the season seems unlikely.
With Wash taking up coordinator duties, Carolina has expanded the responsibilities of outside linebackers coach/run game specialist AC Carter into the defensive line. They've also let go of defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Who is Todd Wash? What to know about the new Panthers interim DC
