Did Panthers coach Canales just give his most important press conference of 2026?
AI-generated summary reviewed by our newsroom.
- Panthers coach Dave Canales revealed he recently had surgery for basal cell skin cancer.
- Canales said doctors found a small spot on his nose about two months ago.
- Canales credited team dermatologists and stressed sunscreen, coverage and annual checks.
Dave Canales did something Tuesday at his post-practice press conference that he didn’t have to do. But the Carolina Panthers head coach did it anyway, opening up about a recent surgery he had on his nose after a skin cancer was detected and urging others to “go get screened.”
Canales’ nose was slightly discolored, but it was barely noticeable and something I am almost sure he would not have been asked about. Yet he started his press conference on that subject. He mentioned a procedure he had on Friday to combat “a basal cell type of skin cancer,” as well as the precautions he had tried to take in a job in which being outside under the hot sun is almost a daily requirement.
“I think my mom kind of had the same thing when she was in her 40s,” said Canales, who is 45. “And so I’ve been very just religious about my sunscreen, and 50- to 70-plus (SPF around my) nose and ears and neck. But you can imagine a Southern California kid, playing outdoor sports and then getting into coaching. It’s just a good reminder, making sure we don’t take these things for granted. It was a basal cell type of skin cancer in a small spot, and they were able to get it all.”
In some ways, it may have been the most important press conference Canales gave all year.
What if Canales urging Panthers fans to “Go get screened” results in early cancer detection and a better, longer life for one person? One parent? One child? On a human level, isn’t that more significant than diagnosing why Carolina won or lost against the Falcons on a random Sunday afternoon?
I applaud the coach for talking about his own medical diagnosis, which isn’t a fun subject for anybody. He was making his own personal health story public, Canales said, in part to praise his doctors (he mentioned Dr. Gilly Munavalli and the team at Dermatology Laser & Vein Specialists of the Carolinas) but primarily to urge people with beach season in full swing to cover themselves up when they’re in the sun.
Canales has worn long sleeves in practically every practice I’ve ever seen him coach, even in the 90-degree dog days of summer. That’s a conscious choice, too, he said.
“It’s something they (the doctors who screen the Panthers every year for skin cancer) have recommended,” Canales said. “Sun block is good. But if you can put sleeves on … I don’t wear hats a lot, and I probably should wear hats more. ... It’s important to keep that coverage of your nose and ear areas. ... And use all the proper types of sunblock and waterproof, too. Because we’re sweating out there. So halfway through the practice you can be completely depleted that way.”
Canales said this was the first time something suspicious had been found on his skin. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you tell your doctor about any unusual moles or changes in your skin that you notice, even in obscure places like the soles of your feet. Many dermatologists will also recommend getting a full-body check every year to find any potential skin cancers early.
In Canales’ case, he said: “This was probably about two months ago. They found a little spot on my nose and were able to take care of me. A couple of other staff members had some things (too).” So this is my opportunity to say, ‘Go get screened.’ This is something that can be caught and detected early. And they took care of it, and took care of me, so I’m really appreciative of them.”
My friends have been touched by skin cancer. My family, too. In fact, it would be difficult to find a family who has not been. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in America.
It’s summertime. The sun is beating down everywhere. And you know your body better than anyone else. If you see anything the least bit suspicious? Don’t just Google it and hope for the best.
I’ll echo Canales:
Go get screened.
