Feb 27, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales talks to the media at the 2024 NFL Combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Carolina Panthers first-year head coach Dave Canales met with reporters on Tuesday after finishing day one of the team’s optional mini-camp. Canales commented on his first NFL session, saying, “It was great to be out there, for [him], as [his] first practice as a head coach.” In addition to offensive exercises, Canales worked on defense, stating, “Being able to be out there with Ejiro and some of the defensive guys, and bringing this whole thing together was certainly a really cool day for me.”
Dawn of the Dave Canales Era
Canales told reporters about his first head coaching job at Carson High School, whose colors are black and blue, just like the Carolina Panthers’. “It was kind of a pinch yourself moment,” Canales added, “and to do it with some guys that I have familiarity with, I saw a lot of proud brother looks from some of the guys.”
With only three players missing from the Panthers’ mini-camp, the players smell the energy and optimism of the Dave Canales era in Carolina. To have all but three players show up for voluntary mini-camp speaks volumes about Canales’ hopes for this organization, and Dave took notice, saying, “I’ve really enjoyed the attendance so far, it’s been really encouraging for guys to just show up and show excitement for what we’re doing.”
Dave Canales’ Practice Strategy
But it isn’t all fun and games, even if Coach wants to keep things light. “I think it’s a give and take for the coaching staff to make it a good time while they’re here.” He stated that “intentionality” is the buzzword of the day and that the coaches are “trying to be respectful of their time and maximizing those windows, so it’s not ‘just another offseason program’ and give them something to be excited about.”
In addition to a new identity for the Panthers offense, Canales hopes to establish a new identity for the team throughout workouts. “I am looking for the culture that we desire at practice. I want guys to have fun, but I equally want them to be focused and enjoy themselves.” One approach to ensure this is to create an environment in which the boys feel confident.
Coach stated that once players are confidence in what they are doing, their personalities emerge, which leads to camaraderie. And it is something Canales enjoys seeing: “to see the players take over how they break up their own group huddles, and they have their handshakes and sayings; I love to see that part of it.”
Canales is watching over more than just the players on the field. The coaches are also seeing changes in vocabulary and expectations from their new coach. “I am looking for the perfect vibe. We don’t need to do much walking or reading. Put your script aside and coach it. Let’s get coach feedback every 30 to 40 seconds and be truly engaged with the guys.”
