Carolina Panthers: 4 evolving storylines at training camp

Carolina Panthers No. 1: Leadership on defense

There is plenty of leadership positions that need to be filled with the Carolina Panthers. Plenty of established figures parted ways with the organization this offseason. And the initial stages of camp has seen plenty of players looking to fill the void.

This is especially evident on the defensive side of the ball. Shaq Thompson has been more than willing in his desire to step up to the plate and be a leader. While Kawann Short is another that has already begun to take up this responsibility at full health after a torn rotator cuff ended his 2019 campaign early.

The initial stages of training camp have also brought some surprising players who are leading by example. Second-round pick Yetur Gross-Matos was highly complimentary of the Brian Burns’ advice and guidance during his period of transition. And for a second-year player to be doing this tells us plenty about his overall character and willingness to put the team before everything else.

All this bodes well for Carolina’s chances of becoming a cohesive group from the word go. With no preseason games on the schedule this year, it is essential that they make every second of their time together at camp count to prosper in 2020.

That might be easier said than done for this young group. But the early signs regarding leadership on defense are encouraging.