10 Observations From Panthers Training Camp

Lots of Competition at Several Positions

Training Camp and Pre-Season are synonymous with heated battles for roster spots.  This year’s version will be no different as several opportunities are ripe for the taking along both sides of the ball.

The offensive tackle position and the slotting of receivers and tight ends is near the top of the list of competitions to keep an eye on.

Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports

The defensive backfield should have a lot of players eyeing top spots as the cornerback position has a lot of room for shuffling.  The safeties appear to be “by committee” this season, but it will be interesting to see if either of the free agents can return to their All-Pro form.

Thus far, Antoine Cason has done his best Mike Mitchell impersonation this past weekend as a bargain bin steal.  He and Melvin White should be the top two corners, but there’s also rookie Bene Benwikere and Charles Godfrey looking to make their presence known.

Kelvin Benjamin and Ed Dickson have stood out as Newton’s favorite newbie targets on the offensive side of the ball.  Both players appear to be #2 options, and are making the most of their early camp playing time.  We are also keeping a keen eye on A.J. Klein and Chase Blackburn.  Blackburn has enjoyed a few good days, but Klein is looking to step into a bigger role in ’14.

Competition breeds team success, so regardless of “who” and “where” players are on the depth chart, this team will be better as a whole with all of the competition.