North Charlotte Today

Things are a little different this year for the Carolina Panthers as they hold their first voluntary offseason program. With fewer introductions and more familiar faces, the first day of the program retained some common themes from past years. When the Panthers began Monday morning with a team meeting and conditioning work, the atmosphere was recognizable, particularly for veteran players.

Head Coach Dave Canales, now in his second year, is a noticeable difference. "Every year kind of presents its own goals, challenges, relationships," explained JJ Jansen, a veteran long snapper entering his 17th season. "So every first day of school feels both exciting and new and also very repetitive like we've done it every single year. So it's a little bit like the day you get the rubric and the curriculum, and you're just sort of setting the tone, and getting all the materials lined up, and meeting all your friends, the new kids in town, the whole bit."

The offseason program includes simple tasks such as guiding new players to their lockers and introducing those who are unfamiliar with the Bank of America Stadium. This marks the start of a new year, with Coach Canales prepared for the challenges ahead. Last year, he focused on introducing himself to an entirely new team, but now he is familiar with most of the players, allowing for deeper interactions. The initial meeting lasted longer this year as he covered more ground.

The program's first phase is a chance for players to acclimate to the upcoming season through workouts. The Panthers' successful offensive strides and defensive additions during free agency have provided a positive backdrop. However, this initial period limits hours and abstains from actual football practice. Players engage in running, conditioning, and lifting, while meeting with wellness staff. Position coaches remain off the field.

Jansen noted the comfort in the process, despite the longer first meeting. "We know his style. He's more comfortable in the role. So you can go a little bit deeper, knock a few more things out because I'm sure like any ball coach, he wants to get to the Xs and Os and the scheme and all that stuff," he said regarding Canales. "I don't think any teacher loves rubric day. I don't think they love the curriculum day. I think last year, he spent a little bit more time slowly laying everything out just so he didn't overwhelm the guys. This year, he's able to fly through some stuff."

For the returning players, the familiarity allows them to start the season on steady ground, while new members navigate initial complexities. Those familiar with Canales from his time in Tampa or Seattle are aware of his approach, aiding a faster transition.