Evero Discusses Return to Carolina, New Personnel, Respect for Stephon Gilmore + More

Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero meets with the media for the first time this offseason.

For the first time this offseason, Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero met with the media. Below are some notable quotes from Thursday's virtual press conference.

Returning to Carolina

“There’s obviously a lot that goes on at that time of year. Very grateful and thankful for the opportunties that I got to interview for these head coaching jobs. I don’t take those lightly. Those are a blessing. Coming back here, I’m very fortunate that Dave (Canales), Dan (Morgan) and Mr. Tepper gave me this opportunity to come back here. These positions are so highly coveted and it’s an honor to be an NFL defensive coordinator, especially here being in this community, my family loves living here. We’re finally settled in and enjoying it. The organization has been fantastic. The players here, I really, really love working with them on a daily basis. That decision (to return) was very easy.”

The defensive staff remaining in tact

“Our staff being back is such a huge blessing. I don’t think in my entire NFL career have I ever been on a staff, whatever role I had, where the entire (defensive) staff came back. That never really happens. That’s a huge blessing. Already having our rhythm, already having our flow that’s such a huge advantage for us.”

Brian Burns being traded

“Had a great experience with Brian. Brian is first and foremost, a great guy. He’s fun to be with, talented player, and we had a good year with him. But that’s the nature of what we do. I have full trust in Dan and Dave to make those decision that are going to be in the best interest of our team.”

Signing Jadeveon Clowney

“I’m so excited about JD. The play style is what I’m really excited about. The guy just plays hard, he’s physical, he’s tough. He plays the way we want to play. There’s a lot of comfort for him being closer to home. He’s been great these first couple of days going through the offseason program. I love having his energy in the building and the insight and feedback that he gives young player. We’re excited about what he’s going to bring to our team.”

Signing A’Shawn Robinson

“When you think about A’Shawn and Derrick (Brown) and Shy (Tuttle), you don’t get any bigger than that in terms of having a big front. Guys that are physical, can play the run game, and very intelligent. We are excited about where our run defense can go this year.”

Thoughts on free agent CB Stephon Gilmore

“Huge fan. I’ve always been a big fan of Stephon over his career. His track record speaks for itself, but I can only speak to the guys that are on our team right now. But I am a huge fan of his.”

Initial thoughts on Dave Canales

“I’m excited about having Dave here. We’ve had nothing but great communication since he first got hired. I love his energy, there’s a good energy in the building right now. I’m excited about what we’re going to do together. I think he does a great job schematically, his offenses are always hard to play against. I’m glad that we’re on the same team.”