Panthers: 4 players to watch closely at 2020 training camp

Carolina Panthers Player No. 1: Teddy Bridgewater (QB)

All eyes will be on Teddy Bridgewater when he finally gets to the field during training camp. The quarterback is the new man under center for the Carolina Panthers. And the next few weeks are going to be crucial if the player wants to make the most out of another starting opportunity.

Bridgewater will have a short timeframe to develop chemistry with his talented wide receiver group before their season opener against the Las Vegas Raiders. His relationship with center Matt Paradis is another key element to keep an eye on during this period of transition.

The Panthers shifted the landscape of the organization when they gave Bridgewater a three-year, $63 million deal with a $15 million signing bonus and $33 million guaranteed. This also resulted in the release of iconic signal-caller Cam Newton. And playing in the 2015 NFL MVP’s shadow is yet another challenge awaiting the former first-round pick next season.

His previous relationship with Carolina’s new offensive coordinator Joe Brady is something that will stand Bridgewater in good stead. Every player on the roster should be up to speed from a theoretical perspective thanks to virtual OTAs. But watching how this offense responds to their new quarterback is going to be something to keep a close eye on in the coming weeks.

Few would argue that Bridgewater is not deserving of such an opportunity. He has been to hell and back in order to make another starting spot his own. But the hard work is just beginning.