Carolina Panthers: Minicamp provides a glimpse into 2019
Carolina Panthers minicamp is officially underway in Charlotte.
The Carolina Panthers initially appeared poised for a return to the playoffs last season before suffering a disastrous loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers and never fully recovering. Much of the seven game slide fell on the injured shoulder of quarterback Cam Newton but there were other issues that also contributed to the decline.
A significant decrease in pressure generated on opposing quarterbacks was also an area where general manager Marty Hurney wanted to make improvements this offseason. After adding veteran Bruce Irvin into the mix, Carolina made hybrid defensive end Brian Burns their first-round pick in April – but they weren’t finished.
Wide receiver Torrey Smith restructured his current contract which allowed the Panthers to land prized free agent Gerald McCoy. Able to play multiple positions along the defensive line, coach Ron Rivera feels he has the pieces in place in order to succeed this season.
As minicamp takes place this week before a summer break, the practices serve to provide everyone a glimpse into what the 2019 season has in store. Newton continues the rehab process, making his first ‘public’ throws and barring any set back appears to be on pace for a full return by training camp.
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A revamped defense continues to employ multiple fronts which should serve to benefit their production and provide plenty of headaches for opposing offenses. Behind them, linebacker Luke Kuechly continues to impress but must lead this defense without Thomas Davis, who signed with the Los Angeles Chargers during free agency.
A competitive group of wide receivers is expected to carry their positional battles into Spartanburg next month. Who Newton can develop a relationship with and learn to trust, may have an impact on which of the current 11 make the final roster.
Running back Christian McCaffrey continues his development and has set a lofty goal for the upcoming 2019 season. Last year the Panthers former first-round pick garnered 1,098 yards rushing with 867 receiving – this season he wants 1,000 of each.
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In addition to hoping for a healthy Newton, Panthers fans should be excited for 2019 as it appears Hurney has done a great job of putting together a competitive roster for the upcoming season.