The Carolina Panthers are making a move that brings a familiar face back to the organization, as they reportedly plan to add former safety Mike Adams to their coaching staff ahead of the 2026 season.

According to KPRC 2 Houston's Aaron Wilson, Adams is set to join the team as a Bill Walsh coaching fellow, a program designed to develop minority coaches. The Charlotte Observer's Mike Kaye later confirmed the hire, adding that Adams will bring both playing experience and coaching know-how to the sideline.

Adams, who went undrafted out of college before signing with the San Francisco 49ers in 2004, enjoyed a remarkable 16-year NFL career. His time in Carolina spanned two seasons (2017-2018), during which he started all 33 games he played—including the Panthers' wild-card playoff matchup against the New Orleans Saints in 2017. In a Panthers uniform, Adams tallied 148 combined tackles, six interceptions, two forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries, proving to be a reliable veteran presence in the secondary.

A two-time Pro Bowler, Adams has already spent four years honing his craft as a coach. He served as the assistant defensive backs coach for the Chicago Bears in 2021 and later worked with the New York Giants from 2023 to 2025, where he held roles as assistant special teams coach and assistant secondary coach. Now, he's returning to Charlotte to help shape the next generation of Panthers players.

For fans looking to gear up like their favorite Panthers, this reunion adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates as the coaching staff takes shape.