In a candid interview earlier today, Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales reflected on his team’s long wait for a Super Bowl victory, offering his perspective on the challenges and the road ahead for the franchise. The Panthers, despite showing promise in recent seasons, have not won a Super Bowl since their inception in 1995, and Canales, who took over as head coach this season, emphasized the importance of persistence, culture, and the right mindset to eventually reach the NFL’s biggest stage.
“We’ve had our fair share of heartbreak, and I’m fully aware of the weight that comes with leading this organization,” Canales said. “The Super Bowl is the ultimate goal, and every decision we make is centered around getting us closer to that. But it’s not just about one game or one season—it’s about building a foundation that can sustain success for years to come.”
Canales’ statement comes as the Panthers continue to rebuild after a series of disappointing seasons. The franchise has had some success, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2016, but they have yet to capture the elusive title. Under Canales’ leadership, the Panthers are aiming to strengthen both the roster and the team culture, with an emphasis on consistency, player development, and making smart moves in free agency and the draft.
Despite not winning a Super Bowl, the Panthers have remained a relevant force in the NFC, and their fanbase continues to support the team with great passion. Canales acknowledged the pressure to bring home a championship but emphasized that building a sustainable winner takes time.
“It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of the Super Bowl,” Canales said. “But what I remind our players, staff, and even our fans is that success isn’t just defined by one game. We want to get to that game, but we need to be prepared to compete for championships consistently, year after year. This organization has had a lot of success, and we’re not far off from getting back to that level. But it’s going to take a lot of hard work, a little luck, and the right people in place.”
Canales’ comments reflect his pragmatic and long-term approach to coaching. Having previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, Canales knows the importance of building a strong team dynamic and fostering a culture of accountability. With the Panthers making strides on both sides of the ball this season, Canales believes that they are on the right track, despite the challenges ahead.
“We know it’s been a long time since the Panthers have won a Super Bowl, and we’re not shying away from that,” Canales added. “But we also know we have the talent and the coaching to take us there. It’s all about progress, and we’re focused on getting better every single day. The Super Bowl isn’t just a goal—it’s a responsibility, and we owe it to the fans and the city to give it everything we’ve got.”
Canales’ comments come at a crucial time for the Panthers, who are still in the early stages of a rebuild under his leadership. The team has made significant moves in recent years, including the acquisition of key players and bolstering their roster with young talent. However, the road to a Super Bowl remains difficult in a highly competitive NFC.
As the Panthers continue to battle through the regular season and set their sights on playoff contention, all eyes will be on Canales and his ability to lead the team back to the promised land. With his determined mindset and focus on building a championship-caliber team, Canales is determined to one day bring the Lombardi Trophy to Charlotte. Fans are hopeful that this may be the year that the Panthers finally reach the Super Bowl once again—and this time, bring home the title.
