North Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — In a development consistent with his optimistic approach, Panthers' rookie head coach Dave Canales viewed the rain-soaked second practice of training camp as an opportunity rather than a setback.

"Offensively, what a great day to deal with a little bit of rain, you know, to deal with a little bit of weather early on in practice, you know, to really heighten the awareness of the ball security, which we're harping on anyway," Canales said. "But we had a couple of drops, we had a ball get punched out, and just the importance of that intentionality regardless of the weather, especially when it's wet."

Canales highlighted that it was also beneficial for defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero's focus on creating turnovers. Several offensive players dropped passes or fumbled during practice, leading to defensive celebrations each time.

Diontae Johnson remarked on this enthusiasm after veteran corner Troy Hill made a play against him: "I wanted to say something, but that's not me no more. I'm trying to grow. You know, they're going to talk. It's defense, and you've got to let them have a little feel-good moment. So, move on to the next play. I'll make my play the next time."

The Panthers are aiming to improve their turnover differential from last year's ranking of 25th in the league (minus-9), having created only 11 turnovers—the fewest in the league.

"Those are the moments that we have to capture," Canales said. "So it's kind of interesting as an offensive coach; those things always kind of make the hair rise a little bit on my neck. But to see the defense and the intentionality was like—that's exactly what we want. It's exactly the type of football we're looking for."

Rookie wideout Xavier Legette had an improved second day of practice with an impressive leaping catch in one-on-ones against cornerback Jaycee Horn.

"He's got a real great opportunity to go against one of the best corners in the NFL in Jaycee Horn," Canales said.

Fans attending Thursday morning's practice appreciated covered bleacher seats due to persistent rain throughout parts of the day. Despite all camp practices being sold out except for Back Together Saturday and Fan Fest at Clemson, limited walk-up tickets will be available daily at West 4th Street entrance.

Quarterback Bryce Young celebrated his 23rd birthday quietly amidst training camp activities: "My parents are out here so they're going to drop me off some food," he said.

Regarding kicking competition between Eddy Piñeiro and Harrison Mevis, Canales indicated no rush for decisions: "I learned this from Pete (Carroll), it's like—don't make the decision until the last possible time that you have to."

Safety Jordan Fuller missed practice due to family matters while tight end Tommy Tremble arrived late due to minor hamstring issues but later drove players on active/PUP list mid-practice.

Free agents arrived for workouts towards practice end including former Panthers pass-rusher Marquis Haynes who spent six seasons with Carolina before starting last year on IR due back issues but returned for seven games achieving 14 career sacks including five in 2022 season.

With D.J Wonnum still on active/PUP list and DJ Johnson recovering from illness leaving Jadeveon Clowney alongside K'Lavon Chaisson as first group options; Canales remained confident about linebacker depth stating: "We'll get DJ Wonnum back at some point when he's healthy; with Clowney—that's pretty good group right there."