3 ways that virtual OTAs benefited the Carolina Panthers

Carolina Panthers Reason No. 2: Rookie adaptation

Coming into the NFL is always a daunting prospect for rookie players, regardless of where they were drafted. They find out quickly that the difference between college and the next level is substantial. And it is a case of sink or swim for a lot of prospects.

One could argue that being introduced to the X’s and O’s gradually and via a virtual format could have a positive influence on their transition. The pressure of learning the playbook coupled with trying to impress on the field does tend to overawe some incoming recruits. So just focusing their time on the theory side of the game will stand them in tremendous stead before finally meeting their teammates at training camp.

The Carolina Panthers went bold with the draft picks this year to become the NFL’s first to allocating every selection on the defensive side of the ball. They also managed to pick up 17 undrafted free agents. And although their chance to shine is going to be limited. The group should be fully up to speed with what is expected by the time on-field drills take place.

Most of the Panthers’ draft class is still waiting to sign their deals. Only No. 7 overall pick Derrick Brown has so far put pen to paper. But this shouldn’t be too much of a distraction and will likely pick up the pace just before camp.

It is a lot of information to take in for first-year players looking to find their way. College provides them with a security blanket. And some would have been big fish in a small pond within their program.

That is something that has completely changed with their transition to the next level. And how they’ve taken on board the vital details will ultimately determine their fortunes.