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Panthers' Idzik Takes the Reins in Exciting Debut
13 Aug
Summary
- Brad Idzik, 34, takes over play-calling duties full-time.
- Idzik's debut occurred in a thrilling Hall of Fame Game.
- Haynes King's performance significantly boosted the game's excitement.

Head coach Dave Canales has implemented a significant change for the 2026 Carolina Panthers by delegating play-calling duties to Offensive Coordinator Brad Idzik. Idzik, who is 34 years old, had previously called a few Panthers preseason games but officially took on the responsibility full-time last week.
This season marks Idzik's first time ever calling plays at any level of football, having never served as a head coach or coordinator before joining the Panthers. His inaugural game calling plays coincided with one of the most thrilling Hall of Fame Games in recent history, largely due to the standout performance of Haynes King.