5 key observations from practice Day 6 at Panthers training camp
By Dean Jones
What were some key observations to take from Day 6 of Carolina Panthers training camp practice, where the pads went on for the first time?
The pads are officially on at Carolina Panthers training camp. After a bedding-in period for players and coaches alike, it was finally time to get a little more physical in-between the white lines as roster members battle for depth chart position and progress their respective preparations ahead of the 2021 season.
After a couple of sluggish practice days on Saturday and Monday, this part of camp came at just the right time. Something head coach Matt Rhule mentioned as a potential plus after being far from happy with what he saw after the Panthers returned from their day off.
It’s easy to read too much into what transpires in shorts and shells. But what doesn’t appear in much doubt is that there is plenty of work for the coaching staff to do before Carolina takes the field in Week 1 against the New York Jets at a packed Bank of America Stadium.
With this in mind, here are five key observations from practice Day 6 of Panthers training camp.
Observation No. 1
Intensity and physicality
It’s clear there was a large amount of excitement in the air almost as soon as players emerged from the locker room with the pads on for the first time this offseason. Although just how much contact there can be has changed drastically for health reasons in recent years, it’s something every player still absolutely loves.
The Carolina Panthers will find out plenty about what players they have at their disposal from here on out. There was a noticeable increase in both intensity and physicality throughout the session, which was to be expected when things get a little more ramped-up leading into the preseason calendar.
Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come for the Panthers and the return of pads is welcome for all involved.