Jim Caldwell no longer on Panthers staff entering 2026 season

The Carolina Panthers are looking to prove 2025 was no fluke and reach the playoffs once again in 2026. But now they’ll have to do so without a veteran voice helping give guidance.

Jim Caldwell has left the organization, via Mike Kaye of the Charlotte Observer. He had been with the team as a senior advisor since 2023.

“Former Lions and Colts head coach Jim Caldwell is no longer with the #Panthers after serving as top senior advisor since 2023,” Kaye wrote. “Dave Canales said he offered a lot of wisdom and trust in his position.”

“Carl “Tater” Smith, Tracy Smith’s father and a former Seattle assistant, will fill that position. He will work remotely and be here during the offseason,” he concluded.

Caldwell came to Carolina with plenty of experience to offer. He was head coach of the Indianapolis Colts from 2009-2011 and the Detroit Lions from 2014-17. Beginning his coaching career in 1977 at the college ranks, Caldwell has held a number of impressive titles. Throughout that entire tenure, the coach turned senior advisor worked on the offensive side of the ball.

For the 2026 Panthers’ offense, everything is riding on quarterback Bryce Young. In 2025, he threw a career-high 3,011 yards and 23 touchdowns alongside 11 interceptions. How he fares in 2026 will determine if Carolina goes on another playoff run and if Young earns a long-term extension.

In his role as senior advisor, Caldwell has careful watched Young’s development in Carolina. He may not be with the team as the quarterback finishes out his rookie contract. But the Panthers will at least hope Caldwell’s impact on the franchise is long lasting.

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