Paul Rhoads is coming back. Deep breath. Just poured the rest of a bottle of Makers Mark (thanks, Lee) into a glass. I’m not sure if I’m going to drink it or pour it on myself and set myself on fire.

In addition to Rhoads, Bob Junko(Defensive Tackles) and Curtis Bray (Linebackers) will be back. From the present staff, Wannstedt is still in discussions with Bill Bleil (Tackles/Tight Ends) and Charlie Partridge (Defensive Ends).

As for new hires, in addition to Paul Dunn, Aubrey Hill was hired. Here’s Hill’s info:

Hill, who played and coached under Steve Spurrier’s “Fun ‘n Gun” offense at Florida, joins the Panthers after working at NCAA I-AA Elon (N.C.) University as receivers coach last year. He previously was the receivers coach at Duke from 1999-2003 and additionally served in a pair of NFL coaching internships.
…
Hill helped Florida to a four-year record of 43-10-1 (.806) and three SEC championships. He compiled 86 receptions and 18 touchdowns for his career and caught a touchdown every 4.78 catches, the third best TD ratio in Gators history. He was a team captain as a senior in 1994.

Following his playing career, Hill served as a Florida graduate assistant from 1996-98. In his first season as an assistant, Florida captured the national championship with a 12-1 mark, capped by a 52-20 victory over Florida State in the Sugar Bowl. During his three years on the Florida staff, the Gators went a combined 32-5 (.865).

Those NFL internships? Washington (2001) and Miami (2002). Obviously, Wanny knows and likes him.

While official titles haven’t been announced, I’m guessing that there won’t be many changes. Hill, I’m guessing will be the receivers coach. He seems to have enthusiasm and ambition.

The only downside, is that means the present receivers coach Pete Carmichael is out. Not sure about how he was as a recruiter (he is in his 60s) but as a coach there must be some credit given for the development of Greg Lee this year, along with Joe DelSardo. There was some concern going into the season with WRs since Brookhart left for the Akron gig.