5 key takeaways from Carolina Panthers’ 2021 rookie minicamp
By Dean Jones
What were some of the key takeaways from the Carolina Panthers’ 2021 rookie minicamp over the past few days?
The Carolina Panthers got the chance to get their rookies out onto the field for their first-ever minicamp in a professional environment. This was a hugely beneficial few days for coaching staff and players alike, with the event coming in the midst of big changes to COVID-19 mandates that saw those in attendance get rid of their masks mid-practice when word reached head coach Matt Rhule.
Having this transition before the veterans get into the mix forms a key component to the offseason for first-year players. Some have bigger expectations than others due to where they were drafted. But it is also a critical moment for those the Panthers brought in via the undrafted free-agent market as they look to make a strong first impression.
Carolina definitely has a type when it comes to incoming college recruits.
They were even willing to gamble on slight character concerns to get the right athletes to the organization. If this pays off with immediate production, it will do their chances of mounting a surprising tilt for the postseason an incredible amount of good.
Without further ado, here are five key takeaways from Carolina’s rookie minicamp in 2021.
Carolina Panthers rookie minicamp takeaways
Takeaway No. 1
David Moore makes a big impression
Humble. Grateful. Driven.
These are just three words that come to mind when discussing undrafted free-agent David Moore.
The Grambling State product was snapped up quickly by the Panthers once the draft came to a conclusion. Carolina considered taking him with one of their late-round selections after being impressed by what they saw from Moore at the 2021 Senior Bowl, which was swiftly followed by a solid couple of days at minicamp.
Moore looked the part in team drills, which will stand him in good stead in pursuit of making the 53-man roster by the end of training camp. There does appear to be a chance considering the Panthers’ lack of quality depth on their offensive line interior, but whether the prospect’s size – or lack thereof – will be his undoing when it’s all said and done remains to be seen.
Either way, it was a promising start and something to definitely build off where Moore is concerned.