Giants Coach Is Selected for Panthers Following “Widely Praised” Performance.
After firing head coach Frank Reich, the Carolina Panthers may speak with a former New York Giants assistant again. According to Josh Edwards of CBS Sports, Giants offensive coordinator Mike Kafka was “interviewed by the Panthers last year” and might still be considered for the NFC South team following some “widely praised” work with quarterback Daniel Jones in 2022.
“Some of the shine has been removed this season as a result of New York’s offensive struggles,” Edwards acknowledged. Still, Kafka is just 36 years old, and he has garnered additional praise lately for his role in Tommy DeVito’s victory, which came about after Jones tore his ACL in Week 9.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Panthers owner David Tepper confirmed on Monday, November 27, that Reich had been fired. This could lead to a second interview with the team.
Although he hasn’t improved upon his promise from his first season as a play-caller, Kafka has had unfavorable circumstances. In addition to Jones’ medical issues, Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller and backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor were placed on injured reserve.
Kafka has barely had the resources necessary to make his offense successful when you factor in a plethora of injuries and subpar performances from the offensive line. Amidst all the turmoil, there have been a few bright spots, such as DeVito’s recent performances and his more inventive use of two playmakers.
Mike Kafka’s Searching for Good in a Difficult Season
Kafka is still making the most out of what he has, despite not having much to work with. Especially when DeVito scored three touchdowns in the team’s 31-19 victory over the Washington Commanders in Week 11.
Despite it being only his second complete start in the pros, DeVito didn’t seem uncomfortable. The 25-year-old executed a number of spectacular throws that showcased Kafka’s astute ideas, with Next Gen Stats highlighting the best ones.
In the 10-7 victory over the New England Patriots, DeVito followed these up with a touchdown pass, but he’s not the only player prospering under Kafka’s guidance.
Saquon Barkley, the running back, is also being used by the coordinator in more inventive ways. Barkley is starting to show his mettle in the passing game, and Jalin Hyatt, a rookie wide receiver, had a standout performance against the Patriots.
Kafka is demonstrating his ability to devise strategies to overcome the plans of seasoned defensive minds such as Bill Belichick of the Patriots and Ron Rivera of the Commanders. These modest triumphs give an indication of what Kafka might create if he had access to greater talent.
If the Panthers think Kafka can help quarterback Bryce Young develop, they might take a chance on that possibility. Alternatively, Kafka and Jones might attempt to duplicate the enchantment of 2022 in Carolina.
Daniel Jones and Mike Kafka in Carolina Not Excessive
Jones joining Kafka at the Panthers is not an unlikely possibility. The passer is familiar with the Carolinas having played collegiate football at Duke.
The safety of Jones’ position with the Giants is another concern. Even though he has a $160 million contract, problems with durability and ball security still exist.
When discussing Jones’ prospects of making his 2024 debut, Giants general manager Joe Schoen hardly came across as credible. Jones could follow Kafka if he decided to move on after setting career highs in passing and rushing yards the previous season.
Some Giants supporters may even be happy to see Kafka and Jones leave for greener pastures. However, the Panthers are more likely to request that their next coach concentrate on developing Young.
Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team reports that despite DeVito’s tremendous struggles as a rookie under Reich, Kafka has him outperforming the player chosen first overall in the 2023 NFL draft.
