Carolina Panthers embracing new mentality of HC Dave Canales

The Carolina Panthers are embracing a mentality of relentless dedication and self-driven improvement this season, spearheaded by head coach Dave Canales. His approach, rooted in the belief that every moment is critical, is transforming the team’s culture and fostering a sense of accountability among the players.

Canales has emphasized the importance of treating every practice and game as a unique opportunity. “This is their shot,” Canales stated. “I try to approach every game that way, every practice that way.” This philosophy highlights that success isn’t about the opponent or the time of year but about seizing the moment every day. His philosophy is simple: “This is the only one we have. Can we capture it? Can we go for it?” This mindset has permeated the team, encouraging players to bring their best every day, regardless of circumstances. “If we extend the practice by 20 minutes, then let’s go 20 minutes longer and let’s go just as hard,” he continued, highlighting the mental fortitude needed to make every moment count.

The concept of “iron sharpens iron” is central to Canales’ approach. He believes that the true measure of a team’s strength is not just in individual victories but in the collective improvement that comes when every player pushes their limits. “We make us. That's kind of the saying that we use around the building,” noted Canales.

“If you bring your best and your opponent brings their best, then our whole play elevates. That's the mentality we want, really. So it doesn't become about just beating a guy. It becomes, can I execute at my best ability, at my highest level? And if we're all doing that as a team, just think about how that elevates the quality of football that we have is when we get these matchups and people are bringing everything they have.” This mentality aims to elevate the entire team’s performance, fostering a competitive environment where players are driven to excel.

This shift in mentality is reflected in the words of the players. Running back Miles Sanders noted the difference in leadership this year compared to last. “We don’t need the coaches to give us raw, raw speeches,” he said, emphasizing the player-led culture that has taken root. “If certain players on the team see a downfall or see everybody not competing in the way they’re supposed to, then the players are the ones in charge to keep that stuff going.” This self-policing attitude is a significant change from previous seasons, where the coaches bore the brunt of maintaining team morale and focus.

Austin Corbett echoed these sentiments, praising Canales for his honesty and consistency. “He truly is just a man of his word,” Corbett said, appreciating how Canales’ positive energy and straightforward communication have resonated with the team. “Everything that he’s saying, what he’s preaching to us day in and day out, that’s what we’re going to be about.”

The Panthers are laying a solid foundation, driven by a renewed culture of accountability and a relentless work ethic. As Sanders put it, “All we got to do is keep grinding, get better every day.” The team is united in their belief that a player-led approach is key to their success, with the ultimate goal of building a contender capable of making a deep playoff run. Sanders was asked why the team doesn’t need coaches being as vocal, Sanders replied, “Player led teams go to the Super Bowl. Simple.”