Former Pastor Frank Reich Accepts Role as Carolina Panthers’ New Head Coach

Published: February 1, 2023

By Movieguide® Contributor

The Carolina Panthers’ new head coach, Frank Reich, has a Master of Divinity and used to be a full-time pastor.

Reich spent thirteen years in the NFL as a quarterback playing for the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets, Detroit Lions, and the Panthers. Reich also served in the league as a coach since 2007.

In between his transition from player to coach, Reich earned a Master of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary, and even served as the president of its Charlotte campus. From there, Reich became a pastor at Ballantyne Presbyterian Church, in Charlotte, before transitioning back into the NFL.

Reich’s leadership is focused on glorifying the name of Jesus, he recognizes that mission comes before anything else.

“The No. 1 goal is to magnify the name of Jesus first and foremost above all things,” Reich said, “whether it was in ministry or in coaching, no matter what I was going to choose to do, that was going to be my mission in life. …I really thought [ministry] might be it, but at the end of the day, I don’t think that was God’s calling on my life.”

Reich hasn’t completely given up his pastoral role, however, as he still delivers guest sermons on biblical leadership and courage.

Reich has been described by the Panthers’ general manager as “a great person, a talented football coach, a strong motivator, and a man who connects well with players.” Although not explicitly stated, it is easy to see Reich’s biblical qualities at the forefront of his character.

It is encouraging to see a man of faith given this leadership position. We wish Reich the best of luck and hope he can make a positive, long-lasting impact on his organization that extends beyond football.