Cat Crave
FanSided

Panthers: Garrett Gilbert ready to make most of opportunity

By Danny Jaillet

CHARLOTTE, NC - JULY 10: A worker polishes the logo outside The Bank of America Stadium, home for the Carolina Panthers NFL team, on July 10, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. U.S. President Barack Obama will deliver his acceptance speech at the stadium on the final night of the 2012 Democratic National Convention which the city of Charlotte will host September 3-6. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - JULY 10: A worker polishes the logo outside The Bank of America Stadium, home for the Carolina Panthers NFL team, on July 10, 2012 in Charlotte, North Carolina. U.S. President Barack Obama will deliver his acceptance speech at the stadium on the final night of the 2012 Democratic National Convention which the city of Charlotte will host September 3-6. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Gilbert is ready to make the most of his season with the Panthers…..

It may be only the end of the first week of OTAs, but quarterback Garrett Gilbert’s words should leave the Carolina Panthers and their fans encouraged.

More from Cat Crave

Monday, Max Henson of Panthers.com wrote a piece discussing Gilbert’s current role with the team. As of now, he is vying to solidify his spot as the backup to Cam Newton. As Henson’s article suggests, Gilbert is not afraid to back down from the challenge. In particular, he is eager to learn from new offensive coordinator Norv Turner.

"“Norv has seen everything,” Gilbert said. “He knows what he’s talking about, and I’m all ears.”"

In reading this piece, the fact that Gilbert was so comfortable with the offense was encouraging to me.

"“There’s a comfort level that wasn’t there at this time last year,” Gilbert said. “I feel really good about that aspect of things – my comfort with the offense and the receivers. I feel better at the line of scrimmage talking to the guys. I’m communicating to guys and I know – as opposed to last year just trying to keep my head above water.”"

On a whole, his words should be encouraging and exciting to Carolina Panthers fans. Even though he is not guaranteed the position quite yet, he is ready to work for it and put effort in. It does not sound like he wants to be the guy that holds the clipboard and picks his nose on the sidelines. He wants to be engaged and involved in what the team is doing. He is ready to work and do whatever it takes to be successful.

I’ll be honest: The statements that Gilbert made on Sunday eased my fears about him potentially being the No. 2 quarterback. Earlier in the month, I was not so sure if he had what it took. Skillwise, I am still a little skeptical. However, the fact that he does not seem to want to rest on his laurels shows me that at least he knows what’s at stake and is ready to compete.

Next: Norv Turner will bring a quicker offense in 2018

In a league full of uncertainties, Garrett Gilbert is certainly going to make the most of his opportunity.

Home/Carolina Panthers News