North Charlotte Today

Back in June, when rookies were still finding their footing, Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero noticed something memorable. As he passed by the secondary meeting room, he saw fifth-round rookie Chau Smith-Wade leading a session with his fellow rookie defensive backs. "He's running the meeting," Evero recounted, impressed by Smith-Wade's initiative and habits.

Smith-Wade has since become a key player for the Panthers' defense, playing 67 percent of the defensive snaps over the last two games and starting at nickel as a rookie. He has recorded 34 tackles, a forced fumble, a pass defended, and an interception during this period. "His preparation stays consistent," Evero said about Smith-Wade's performance on the field.

The Cowboys' return game is currently considered one of the best in the NFL, largely due to KaVonte Turpin's performance. Averaging 36.3 yards per return with 762 total return yards and touchdowns from both kickoff and punt returns, Turpin is known for taking risks that others might avoid. Special teams coordinator Tracy Smith acknowledged these challenges: "He takes some chances that other guys don't take."

Meanwhile, the Panthers have added wide receiver Trenton Irwin to their practice squad. Irwin brings six years of experience in the league along with his background in commercial acting. Despite missing a high school practice to film a Microsoft commercial—a decision that led to him being benched—Irwin chose to focus on football instead.

Irwin set a receiving record in California with 285 receptions for 5,268 yards before playing at Stanford under Brad Idzik, now Panthers offensive coordinator. "Trent's a great route runner," Idzik commented on Irwin's skills.

Joining the Bengals initially allowed Irwin to connect with familiar faces like Andy Dalton and Mike Bervovici. Reflecting on his new opportunity with the Panthers, Irwin expressed gratitude for having supportive people around him: "It helps knowing I got people in my corner who want to see me do well."