Panthers tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders drew attention during training camp Friday with several notable plays and celebrations. Sanders, known for his reliable hands, displayed agility and showmanship throughout the session.
During one highlight, quarterback Andy Dalton threw a deep pass to Sanders, who adjusted his body mid-air to make the catch over cornerback Akayleb Evans. After both players went to the ground, Sanders quickly got up—untouched—and walked into the end zone. Cameras captured him spinning the ball and striking a pose in celebration.
Unlike a previous incident on Wednesday when Sanders spun the ball near teammate Jaycee Horn—which could have been flagged for taunting—Friday’s celebration did not target anyone specifically. Additionally, this time defensive back Mike Jackson did not react by throwing the ball back at him.
Sanders continued to contribute later in practice when quarterback Bryce Young found him in the corner of the end zone. He repeated his celebratory spin as center Austin Corbett and wide receiver David Moore joined him in a dance.
Last season, Sanders was selected in the fourth round and experienced a productive stretch before an injury against Kansas City sidelined him. In just under six games before getting hurt, he caught 21 passes for 261 yards and scored one touchdown. If he maintains that level of performance over an entire season, more celebrations are expected.
