A few days ago, Adam Schefter at ESPN reported the Panthers have met with former Packers coach Mike McCarthy about their head coaching vacancy following Sunday’s loss to the Colts. It must be more than just a passing interest or due diligence.

According to Ian Rapoport at NFL Network, the team has met with McCarthy twice.

Other candidates who the Panthers want to talk with include Baylor’s Matt Rhule, who is poised to be the most sought-after college candidate this year.

Rapoport says another name on their list is Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. He has frequently been a head-coaching candidate over the years but he’s been hard to pry away from New England, as the Colts found out the hard way when McDaniels backed out of a deal to become their new coach.

Ravens offensive coordinator Greg Roman should also be a part of the search, too. Roman’s success with Lamar Jackson this year will also make him a hot commodity.

This report suggests McCarthy might be the favorite, though. For what it’s worth, he checks many of the boxes that team owner David Tepper mentioned when he discussed what he’s looking for in his next head coach. While he has a proven track record in the NFL, the question with McCarthy will be if he’s learned from the mistakes that cost him his coveted job in Green Bay.

Interim head coach Perry Fewell will also interview for the job. However, given the way the last three games have gone it’s difficult to see him landing it.

As for the man the franchise is trying to replace, the latest news indicates Ron Rivera will have plenty of choices for his next gig. The Redskins are reported to be interested, for one.