floriparesort.com – 19 May 2026 | The Panthers hire Carl Smith [titlebase] as their new top senior advisor, a move that aims to bring in fresh perspectives and expertise to the team. This decision comes after Jim Caldwell, who served in the same capacity for three seasons, is no longer with the Panthers. The hiring of Carl Smith [titlebase] was announced by Panthers head coach Dave Canales, who expressed his excitement about working with someone he considers a primary football mentor.
Carl Smith [titlebase] and Canales have a history of working together, having been part of the Seattle team from 2011-18 and again from 2021-22. Canales described Smith as someone who brings years of experience and has been a sounding board for significant decisions in the past. The coach affectionately referred to Smith as ‘Tater,’ indicating a level of respect and camaraderie between them.
The role that Carl Smith [titlebase] is taking on involves working remotely but being present for key team events such as camps and minicamp. This setup allows him to evaluate the roster and provide insights on players that the team might not be discussing in their regular meetings. At 78, Smith brings a wealth of knowledge, having begun his NFL coaching career with the Saints in 1986 and worked with several teams including the Jaguars, Browns, and Texans.
The Panthers hire Carl Smith [titlebase] as a strategic move to strengthen their advisory team, replacing Jim Caldwell, who had a notable coaching career, including being the head coach of the Colts from 2009-11 and the Lions from 2014-17. Caldwell’s departure and Smith’s arrival mark a transition in the team’s advisory leadership, with Canales looking forward to the contributions Smith will make.
The decision to have Carl Smith [titlebase] on board reflects the team’s commitment to seeking experienced guidance. As the Panthers move forward with their preparations, the input from Smith is expected to be invaluable, given his extensive background in coaching and his previous collaborations with Canales. The Panthers hire Carl Smith [titlebase] with the hope that his expertise will contribute positively to the team’s performance and strategy.
In conclusion, the Panthers’ decision to hire Carl Smith [titlebase] as their top senior advisor is a significant move aimed at enhancing the team’s advisory capabilities. With Smith’s rich experience and his established working relationship with Coach Canales, the team is poised to benefit from his insights and guidance. As the Panthers navigate the challenges of the upcoming season, the presence of Carl Smith [titlebase] is expected to play a crucial role in shaping their strategy and performance.
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