5 major Sam Darnold observations from Week 2 of Panthers training camp
By Dean Jones
Sam Darnold is growing in confidence
The first few days of training camp are always strange. There is a bedding-in period in accordance with league rules, even though players and coaching staff alike are eager to get the pads on in pursuit of earning starting positions or simply a spot on the 53-man roster.
Sam Darnold is coming into a new environment, learning a different system, and trying to get on the same page with teammates in double-quick time before he takes the field against the team that traded him in Week 1.
Although Darnold cannot share all the blame for the way things went down at MetLife Stadium, he does have some bad traits that cause complications on the field that need to be quashed at the earliest possible opportunity.
It’s a work in progress. But the important thing is that Darnold appears to be growing in confidence with every passing practice.
Something that hasn’t gone unnoticed by head coach Matt Rhule.
"“I think Sam’s doing really well. He’s evolving, he’s growing, and getting good reps, and a lot of different looks, and for the most part protecting the football.”"
Coming up against a defense that could be among the NFL’s best next season is helping. There is no margin for error and although Darnold has made some indifferent throws, the Carolina Panthers must be encouraged by what they’ve witnessed so far.