NFL Rumors: Vic Fangio Joining Frank Reich's Panthers Staff as DC Has 'Momentum'

Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich is keen on having Vic Fangio join his staff as defensive coordinator in 2023, according to Josina Anderson of CBS Sports.

There is "momentum" on Fangio joining Reich's staff, Anderson added, and it could take making him the highest-paid defensive coordinator in the NFL.

The Panthers announced that they hired Reich as their new head coach on Thursday. He replaces Matt Rhule, who was fired following a 1-4 start. Assistant Steve Wilks served as interim head coach for the remainder of the season, going 6-6.

Reich now has the power to hire his own staff, and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Thursday that the Panthers were expected to "move quickly" in the defensive coordinator process.

Rapoport listed Fangio, Kris Richard, Marquand Manuel and Gus Bradley as some of the names to keep an eye on in the search. The Athletic's Joseph Person reported Jan. 15 that the Panthers had already interviewed Fangio for the position.

Fangio served as head coach of the Broncos from 2019-21 and was fired following a 7-10 finish to the 2021 campaign. He led the team to a 19-30 record in that span.

The 64-year-old has spent the 2022 season as a defensive consultant for the NFC Championship Game-bound Philadelphia Eagles, which had one of the NFL's best defenses this year.

Fangio previously served as defensive coordinator for the Panthers from 1995-98. He has also had stints as the defensive coordinator for the Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears.

Carolina had a rough defense during the 2022 season under Al Holcomb. The team's defense allowed 350.2 yards per game—227.5 yards passing and 122.6 yards rushing—and 22 points per game.

If hired, Reich will be hoping Fangio can help turn the team's defense around for a better finish next season.