The Panthers got back to work Wednesday after Tuesday’s off day, and the session gave them a little of everything: a strong showing from a young tight end, a rough rep for Bryce Young, and no shortage of physicality.
One of the clearest winners was Mitchell Evans. Listed as TE2, he turned in a really strong practice with a handful of eye-catching catches, including a nice grab in tight coverage from Nick Scott.
Ja’Tavion Sanders has already said any of the three tight ends could end up as TE1 at some point, and Evans did his part to back that up. After a solid but quiet rookie season, he’s making a real push for more snaps and a possible sophomore jump.
Young, meanwhile, had his first obvious stumble of camp. He’s been outstanding overall, but Wednesday was a down day.
The low point came in one-on-ones when Jalen Coker beat Jaycee Horn and Young’s throw was way off the mark, a miss that quickly made the rounds. He was fine in team work, but he didn’t do enough there to erase how bad that one rep looked.
The defense also brought plenty of juice. Lathan Ransom delivered a hard shot on Ja’seem Reed in team passing work, though Reed got back to his feet.
Ransom has been playing with real edge throughout camp, but this time it didn’t spill into a fight. That matters, because the Panthers have been pushing intensity without wanting practice to turn into a daily skirmish.
There was also some news on the injury front. Head coach Dave Canales said OLB Pat Jones was out with an illness, while G Damien Lewis returned for the first part of practice but stayed out of team drills.
Canales later said, “I don’t think he’ll play” in Saturday’s preseason game. Lewis matters a lot to this group, both because of his talent and because the offensive line can’t afford many more setbacks.
He’s back on the field, but the Panthers still need him healthy and building chemistry with his new teammates.
Another encouraging sign came from Monroe Freeling. He’s had a good camp so far, and the progress has shown as the days have gone on.
Moved into a starting role on the right side instead of the left, he’s handled the adjustment well. On Wednesday, he had a strong showing against Jaelan Phillips, the $120 million man, which only added to the sense that Freeling is settling in nicely.
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Panthers Still Have One Secondary Question After Big Trevon Moehrig Move
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Panthers Rookie Could Change Carolinas Offensive Line Sooner Than Expected
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Pro Football Focus analyst Gordon McGuinness sees a possible longer view there, with rookie Sam Hecht sitting in the mix as a player who could force his way into the lineup before long. Hechts college tape gave him a reputation as a steady blocker in both phases, and Fortners one-year deal leaves Carolina with a built-in opening if the rookie keeps developing the way the Panthers hope. [Read more 🡒]