4 emerging leaders for the Carolina Panthers at training camp
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers Player No. 1: Teddy Bridgewater – QB
There is a tremendous amount of expectation on the shoulders of Teddy Bridgewater in 2020. The quarterback has been given the daunting task of following in the footsteps of 2015 NFL MVP Cam Newton, who left a legacy with the Carolina Panthers that will last through the ages.
Bridgewater has made a smooth transition to the Panthers during training camp. He is often seen on the field way after others have departed. And this is another strong sign that he is going to do whatever it takes to make a real go of this starting opportunity.
The former first-round pick has gone over incredibly well with his teammates so far. They have been glowing in their praise of Bridgewater, who is leading vocally and by example despite being a new arrival to the set-up in free agency.
Putting it together in a competitive setting is a completely different story. But it is clear Bridgewater will have the complete confidence of his coaching staff and everyone in the huddle from the word go.
The Panthers showed a tremendous amount of faith in Bridgewater when they gave him a three-year, $63 million deal with a $15 million signing bonus and $21 million guaranteed. He has a fun-loving exterior, a calm demeanor under center, and a fierce determination to succeed.
All three traits will be needed next season. But the early signs regarding his emergence as a leader give great cause for encouragement.