The Carolina Panthers are set to lose a valued member of their scouting team as Khary Darlington departs for a front office role with UCLA, according to CBS Sports.
Darlington, who has been with the Panthers for 14 years, has played a critical role in scouting the South region for the team. His departure adds another layer of complexity for a franchise already under scrutiny, as a recent NFLPA survey ranked Panthers owner David Tepper as the second-worst in the league, just ahead of New York Jets owner Woody Johnson.
Darlington’s move reunites him with Deshaun Foster, a former Panthers running back and UCLA’s current head coach. Foster, who ranks fourth in franchise history with 3,336 career rushing yards during his 2003-07 tenure, took the reins at UCLA last year. His coaching journey at his alma mater began with a stint from 2013-2015, and he returned as an assistant in 2017.
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The move to UCLA presents a fresh opportunity for Darlington, aligning with Foster’s vision to strengthen the Bruins’ football program. It also highlights the increasing trend of NFL scouts transitioning into collegiate roles, potentially offering greater job stability and influence over building a roster.
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For the Panthers, the loss emphasizes a period of transition, not only in their front office but also amid broader organizational challenges. As UCLA continues to grow under Foster’s leadership, Darlington’s experience and regional scouting acumen could be a valuable asset in shaping the future of the Bruins’ football program.