5 things we learned from Week 4 of Carolina Panthers camp

Carolina Panthers No. 5: Will Grier taking things more seriously

To say quarterback Will Grier was not ready for the field as a rookie would be something of an understatement. The signal-caller was like a sheep being thrown to the wolves with little other viable alternatives on the Carolina Panthers. And the fact he was not fully prepared for the task in hand made things even worse.

Grier was brutally honest when it came to his contribution in 2019. His play as a starter over the last two games has left plenty of questions about his aspirations as a possible No. 1 down the line. But is an experience the former West Virginia standout is keen to put to good use next season and beyond.

"“I mean, (I was) straight up was bad at being a backup. I didn’t really understand that. That’s part of the experience and part of my personal journey and growth and career, and I think I’m glad it happened. I’m glad I got the experience. It made me better. I think that was maybe their goal of it last year, was to challenge me and make me better. “I needed work in all aspects of my game. I got a net in my small backyard and was just working accuracy some days. I made a makeshift weight room at my house. I was just finding ways to push myself and figure out a way to get better during that time. It’s not ideal, but also, there’s no excuses in this game.”"

Grier seems to have settled into the backup role far better with the Panthers at training camp. Having healthy competition with former XFL star P.J. Walker has guarded against any further complacency and has led to some eye-catching throws from the second-year signal-caller.

"“I feel more confident. I went into this year knowing the important things to learn the offense fast and go out there and be comfortable in practice. (I) picked it up a lot faster. I was better at preparing this year than I was last year in that aspect, which helps you play faster and see the field. Everything is kind of a ripple effect.”"

Whether Grier will secure the primary backup role is still up in the air. Carolina’s new coaching staff has no emotional ties to him, but whatever role the player is given, he must show better application and a willingness to contribute in some small way.