Panthers add six assistants to coaching staff

Former Michigan coach Brady Hoke is joining the Carolina Panthers. (Carlos Osorio/AP)

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Panthers announced the addition of six assistant coaches to Ron Rivera’s staff, including former Michigan head coach Brady Hoke as the new defensive line coach.

Carolina also promoted Chase Blackburn to special teams co-ordinator, and hired Steve Russ as linebackers coach, Scott Turner as quarterbacks coach, Heath Farwell as assistant special teams coach and Travelle Wharton as assistant offensive line coach.

Hoke makes his NFL coaching debut following 34 years coaching at the collegiate level, including 12 seasons as a head coach with Michigan (2011-14), San Diego State (2009-10) and Ball State (2003-08).

Hoke spent the 2017 season as Tennessee’s as associate head coach/defensive line coach. He served as the Volunteers’ interim head coach following Butch Jones’ departure. He previously spent 20 seasons coaching the defensive line at the collegiate level.

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