The Carolina Panthers and the Cleveland Browns held a joint practice in Charlotte on Wednesday, with both teams focusing on preparation ahead of Friday’s preseason opener. The session was notable for its calm atmosphere, as neither team engaged in major altercations and the weather remained manageable after heavy rain earlier in the week.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales attributed the break in the weather to “the power of prayer,” saying, “I asked the powers that be for ‘just a little window’ in the rain.” He added, “I can’t dream of a better situation, a better scenario to have that kind of competition, but also to be able to respect each other. So really, really just, tribute to, you know, Kevin (Stefanski) and the Browns, coming in here and getting some good work in.”
While there were minor incidents—including running back Chuba Hubbard being restrained after an exchange with a Browns defensive back—players and coaches described these moments as competitive rather than hostile. Quarterback Bryce Young commented, “Yeah, yeah, that’s the classic DB special. They get a PBU. You want to throw the ball back. So yeah, it’s all competition.”
Young led the first-team offense effectively during drills, while the Panthers’ run defense performed well against Cleveland’s offensive line.
Cornerback Jaycee Horn did not participate in practice following a minor car accident earlier that day. Head coach Canales said Horn received stitches for a cut on his left thumb and will not play in Friday’s game but is otherwise expected to recover soon. “He’s day-to-day right now,” Canales said. “We’re just going to evaluate. It doesn’t seem like anything else happened. He’ll be able to still do some activity, running, and all that, but he will not play this game.”
Horn was present on the sideline during practice and remained engaged with teammates. Young noted Horn’s energy: “Even without practicing, just as much energy as he always has,” Young said. “That’s our guy; we know he’s always going to do everything he can.”
Looking ahead to Friday’s preseason matchup at Bank of America Stadium, Canales indicated most starters would play between eight and twelve snaps unless they complete an extended drive early on. Young expressed anticipation for live action: “Yeah, I’m super excited,” Young said. “…it’s just a great opportunity for us…to go out there and try to establish ourselves…It’s a blessing no matter what it is.”
During Wednesday’s drills, rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan saw frequent targets from Young. The two connected on several plays but also experienced missed opportunities—a process both players see as important for building chemistry within the offense.
Canales highlighted their progress: “I love the chemistry that they’re developing,” he said. “Bryce has been giving TMac a lot of opportunities…to figure out ‘Where can I put this where he’s going to be able to get his hands on it?'”
The Panthers reported several injury concerns from practice: left guard Damien Lewis exited early with an undisclosed issue; linebacker Claudin Cherelus was carted off due to a groin injury; rookie outside linebacker Nic Scourton returned from a hamstring problem; wide receiver Hunter Renfrow remained sidelined with his own hamstring issue.
Other observations included strong performances by rookie defensive tackle Cam Jackson and wide receiver Brycen Tremayne during one-on-one drills and team periods.
Former Panthers wideout Diontae Johnson attended practice as a visitor after being traded last season.
Several alumni were present at practice including Kurt Coleman, Brentson Buckner, Micheal Barrow, and Kevin Donnaley.
