In 1995, Capers took on the role of head coach for the newly established Carolina Panthers. This was a significant step in his career, as he was tasked with building a team from scratch. Under his guidance, the Panthers quickly became competitive, achieving a remarkable 7-9 record in their inaugural season. The following year, Capers led the Panthers to a 12-4 record and an appearance in the NFC Championship Game, a remarkable feat for a second-year franchise. His efforts earned him the NFL Coach of the Year award in 1996.
After his time with the Panthers, Capers continued his coaching career with the Houston Texans, another expansion team, in 2001. As the first head coach in Texans history, he faced the challenge of establishing a new team in a competitive league. The Texans played their first season in 2002, and Capers worked diligently to lay the foundation for the franchise. Although the team struggled in its early years, Capers' experience and leadership were vital in navigating the challenges of building a new team.
Throughout his career, Capers was known for his defensive expertise. His defensive schemes often emphasized aggressive play and adaptability, which helped his teams compete against some of the best offenses in the league. Capers' ability to develop and mentor players was also a hallmark of his coaching style, earning him respect from players and colleagues alike.
In addition to his head coaching roles, Capers served in various capacities as a defensive coordinator and assistant coach for several NFL teams.
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