India, Oct. 30 -- The Carolina Panthers have made a major midseason change to their defensive coaching staff, firing defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and defensive passing game coordinator Jonathan Cooley after Thursday night's 27 to 19 loss to the Green Bay Packers.

Carolina has named defensive line coach Todd Wash as interim defensive coordinator, handing him responsibility for calling defensive plays.

The decision gives head coach Dave Canales a new leadership structure on defense as the Panthers attempt to address persistent problems on that side of the ball.

The move is significant because it removes two coaches who have been central to Carolina's defensive system.

Wash must now take charge during the season, with limited time t...