So, how did Dave Canales’ first outing of training camp as Carolina Panthers head coach turn out?
The 43-year-old was asked exactly that on Wednesday morning, shortly after wrapping up the opening practice of the summer.
“Aw, it was great,” Canales replied. “It’s such a challenge for me. I had an amazing opportunity this summer to spend some time with Tony Dungy. He’s one of my mentors. Talked to Pete Carroll on the phone, and just kinda asked him what to expect. And I think the part that made me a little anxious is I know that I can’t walk into this with 30 years of head-coaching experience, being able to see everything. But I just wanna continue to challenge myself to see it all.”
Canales, who spent 13 seasons as a member of the Seattle Seahawks coaching staff, has drawn some comparisons to Carroll. He, like Pete, is often lauded for his optimism, high energy and ability to connect with his players.
Now, Canales is trying to connect with everyone—on all sides of the ball.
“See what’s happening, not just on the offensive side,” he added of his hopes moving forward. “For sure, that’s what I’m here to make sure we step out on a good foot. But to see what’s happening on the defensive side, how it’s all fitting in, spending time with special teams—we had some great periods out there where we’re teaching fundamentals, which are gonna be critical.
“So I think more and more, how much can I see on any given play? But I think in general, I was just really excited, really humbled and really grateful to have this opportunity, and to really feel supported by a staff of amazing coaches and by a bunch of players who are hungry to do something this year.”
