North Charlotte Today

The Carolina Panthers may have concluded their 2024 season, but two of their coaches will continue to showcase their skills in upcoming all-star games. Jim Caldwell and Daren Bates, both part of the Panthers' coaching staff, will be participating in these events.

Daren Bates, the special teams assistant for the Panthers, is set to take on the role of special teams coordinator for the East team in the East-West Shrine Bowl. This college all-star game provides NFL prospects an opportunity to perform in front of coaches and scouts. For Bates, this marks his debut as a coach in such a game. He was recommended for this position by Jim Caldwell.

Bates expressed enthusiasm about using an NFL script during practice sessions to help prepare nearly 100 prospects. "It's more so just like your OTAs, your rookie mini camp," Bates explained. He aims to provide players with techniques and tools that they will encounter when joining an organization.

Bates recognizes the value of interacting with potential recruits: "Excited to see some guys that I probably haven't watched...even if we don't get them, still to be able to keep up with them as their career progresses."

Before joining the Panthers, Bates was a linebacker who played nine years in the NFL and won a National Championship with Auburn Tigers in 2011. His coaching journey began with the Seattle Seahawks in 2023.

Tracy Smith praised Bates's ability to connect with players: "He's getting better week to week on the fundamentals of coaching." Smith highlighted Bates's progress in understanding diverse roles within special teams.

Jim Caldwell will serve as head coach for Team Mauka at the Polynesian Bowl. The event features top high school juniors and seniors nationwide. Caldwell brings his experience from previous roles as head coach for Wake Forest, Indianapolis Colts, and Detroit Lions.

Caldwell has been instrumental for Dave Canales, Panther's rookie head coach: "His reminders are just stay consistent with your messaging," Canales noted about Caldwell’s influence.

Caldwell sees his participation as beneficial beyond football: "I think the off-field experience will be just as valuable as the on-field one," he told KHON after arriving in Hawaii.

The Polynesian Bowl kicks off at 9 pm EST on Friday and can be viewed on NFL Network. The East-West Shrine Bowl begins at 8 pm EST on Thursday, January 30th, also broadcasted on NFL Network.