Dave Canales and Dan Morgan Address Media Ahead of NFL Scouting Combine
With the NFL Scouting Combine on the horizon, Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales and General Manager Dan Morgan took the opportunity to address the media and provide insight into the team’s preparations for the 2025 season. Both are focused on building a competitive and balanced roster, with Canales entering his second year as head coach and Morgan preparing for key decisions in free agency. The two executives outlined their goals for improving the team, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, while also providing updates on key players. As they gear up for the combine, Canales and Morgan are confident in the Panthers' direction and committed to making moves that will elevate the team in the coming season.
Canales shared his excitement about entering his second year as head coach, noting he feels more prepared and confident compared to his first season. He emphasized his growing relationship with General Manager Dan Morgan, which he believes will be pivotal in shaping the team’s future. Canales also discussed the defensive side of the ball, praising the work of defensive coordinator Ejiro Eviro and expressing confidence in the system’s ability to improve the Panthers' defense. Having faced Eviro’s defense previously as the offensive coordinator for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Canales knows firsthand how effective it can be. He is committed to strengthening the defense in 2025, understanding that the team must compete at a higher level.
Canales also highlighted cornerback Jaycee Horn’s standout playmaking ability during the 2024 season, calling him a key part of the defense moving forward. The head coach reiterated the team’s commitment to adding more playmakers this offseason to help elevate the defense further. While Canales is optimistic about the team’s progress, he acknowledged that defensive improvements are a priority. His growing rapport with Morgan and the coaching staff gives him confidence that the team is headed in the right direction. As the Panthers head into the NFL Scouting Combine, Canales is eager to build a more balanced and competitive roster for the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, Dan Morgan addressed key personnel updates, starting with wide receiver Xavier Legette. Morgan shared that Legette’s wrist injury has shown significant improvement, though his ankle injury remains under evaluation by the medical staff. The Panthers are continuing to monitor Legette’s recovery closely. Morgan also provided an update on running back Jonathon Brooks, stating that there is no definitive timeline for his return and that the team is prioritizing his long-term health. The focus is on ensuring that Brooks makes a full recovery without rushing him back into action.
Morgan also discussed the team’s free agency plans, revealing that kicker Eddy Piñeiro, safety Xavier Woods, and tight end Tommy Tremble will be allowed to test the market to gauge their value. He stated that while the team is not closing the door on Piñeiro, they will be actively exploring other options. At the tight end position, Morgan acknowledged the lack of depth, with Ja'Tavion Sanders currently leading the group. Tremble is someone the team would like to bring back, but Morgan emphasized that they want to see what the market holds for him first. Additionally, punter Johnny Hekker is another free agent the Panthers are in discussions with, and Morgan expressed a desire to bring him back for 2025.
Morgan also provided an update on the team’s ongoing negotiations with offensive linemen Austin Corbett and Cade Mays, both of whom are set to hit free agency. He stressed that retaining both players is a priority for the team as they continue to focus on strengthening the offensive line. Negotiations are still in progress, and Morgan is hopeful that both players will remain part of the Panthers' core. He also noted that the tight end position will be addressed, whether through free agency or the draft, as the Panthers look to bolster that area. With the Scouting Combine approaching, Morgan and Canales are poised to make critical decisions that will shape the team’s roster for the 2025 season.
