Living a Secret Life
“I was living a secret life,” admitted Canales, the former offensive coordinator, in an exclusive interview with the Charlotte Observer. Despite his efforts to find solace in church, the Bible, and prayer, Canales confessed to harboring a hidden, dark place within himself.
A Journey Towards Healing
In September 2022, while still with the team, Canales released a book that delves into his personal struggles. Alongside his wife, they co-authored the book with the intention of helping other couples facing similar challenges. “We wanted other people to feel safe starting this journey toward a vibrant marriage by helping them see they are not alone,” the couple expressed in the book’s preface.
A Story of Infidelity
The book candidly addresses Canales’ infidelity, including multiple affairs, even just a month before marrying his wife. Canales acknowledges that his addiction to pornography played a significant role in the breakdown of intimacy within his relationship. “It was like a gateway drug for me, creating pathways in my brain that allowed me to use sex coldly for my own benefit,” he wrote.
A Path to Redemption
Reflecting on his past, Canales admits to engaging in destructive behaviors such as binge drinking and socializing without his partner, even before infidelity entered the picture. Canales, who describes himself as a “recovering narcissist,” has since made significant changes in his life. He has quit drinking alcohol entirely, believing it will help him avoid making similar poor choices.
The Impact of Honesty
Opening up about his affairs was not an easy decision for Canales, as it meant exposing his personal life to the public. Despite the potential consequences, it has not hindered his career in the NFL. Canales received praise for his successful leadership of a Baker Mayfield-led Bucs offense after Tom Brady’s retirement. The Carolina Panthers’ decision to hire him was seen as unconventional, given the presence of more experienced candidates in the market.
A Supportive Environment
The Panthers organization stands firmly behind Canales, and his personal life has seen positive changes as well. The book has evoked mixed reactions among readers, some finding it uncomfortable and convicting, while others view it as a breath of fresh air and an invitation to examine their own relationships more deeply.