Panthers Name Todd Wash Interim Defensive Coordinator

The Carolina Panthers fired defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero after consecutive losses and persistent defensive struggles, particularly against the run. Interim coordinator Todd Wash has been told to make stopping the run his priority as Carolina prepares to host the surging Denver Broncos. The Panthers rank near the bottom of the league in rushing defense and have allowed one of the NFL’s highest point totals, while Denver enters on a four-game winning streak. Wash and players have hinted at possible adjustments but say a wholesale change in defensive scheme is unlikely midseason; injuries to key players add to the challenge. Denver, meanwhile, will look to take advantage of Carolina’s weaknesses, though its offense has also struggled overall this season.