Carl “Tater” Smith had ties to Panthers history long before he worked here

Carolina Panthers senior offensive consultant Carl "Tater" Smith maintains deep historical connections to the franchise despite being in his first year working directly for the team. The 78-year-old coach previously mentored three members of the Panthers Hall of Honor—Sam Mills, Wesley Walls, and Jake Delhomme—across his 55-year career in football. Smith also influenced the Panthers' inaugural 1995 coaching staff under Dom Capers by recommending original special teams coach Brad Seely.

Smith previously worked alongside current head coach Dave Canales under Pete Carroll with the Seattle Seahawks, as well as with Capers and Mills during stints in the USFL and with the New Orleans Saints. His son also works for Carolina.