Tag: Panthers Matt Rhule

Watch: Panthers share hype video for new coach Matt Rhule

After watching his first press conference, it sounds like many fans are prepared to run through a wall.

The Panthers turned the page to a new chapter in their franchise this week by hiring Matt Rhule as their coach. After watching his first press conference, it sounds like many fans are prepared to run through a wall. Watch this great Matt Rhule-hype video the team shared on Twitter.

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Matt Rhule makes good impression in first Panthers press conference

At times, he sounded more like a minister than an NFL coach.

Matt Rhule likes football, he likes to talk and he really likes getting to talk about football. That much became apparent a few minutes into his introductory press conference as Carolina’s new head coach.

Considering the commitment the Panthers have made to Rhule (seven years, at least $60 million) it’s appropriate that he spoke at length about his vision for the franchise, his philosophies about the sport and how to build a competitive team.

At times, he sounded more like a minister than an NFL coach. Rhule preached a love of football, his desire to build a great organization and his appreciation for the opportunity from team owner David Tepper. He opened with a strong statement: “I believe what I believe,” a fitting mantra for a coach who will need to earn the faith and trust of professional athletes for the first time in his career.

For what it’s worth, Rhule came across as trustworthy, accountable and committed. Those qualities don’t always mean a championship contender is in the works, but they certainly won’t hurt Rhule as he embarks on this journey.

The speech was heavy on run-through-the-wall-for-him inspiration but light specifics.

Rhule deferred commenting on the situation with Cam Newton, saying he wants to have a complete process in place before he talks specific players. He did say he spoke with Newton on Tuesday and liked what he heard. Rhule also said he shares a passion for analytics and sports science with Tepper. As for his staff, Rhule told the media he wants a veteran presence on his staff and several around the NFL have already reached out.

There are a million things for Rhule and the Panthers to sort out before they take the field next season. For now, he started his tenure by making a good first impression.

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