5 major Sam Darnold observations from Week 2 of Panthers training camp

Increased optimism surrounding Sam Darnold

The recent production and improvements made by Sam Darnold have not gone unnoticed by his teammates. Everyone seems relatively happy with the quarterback’s development since the start of training camp, which is always half the battle for a new player coming in at the most important position on the field.

Darnold has a lot of work still to come. There’s no getting away from that.

But the Carolina Panthers can feel confident that the signal-caller is heading in the right direction despite getting plenty thrown at him from a formidable defense.

Cam Erving, another offseason signing who is projected to be the starter at left tackle, praised Darnold for his transition and feels confident in his ability to take Carolina to bigger things in 2021.

"“He (Sam Darnold) controls the huddle, which is a great thing you want to see in a quarterback. He has really good pocket presence. He knows when to get out and turn it into a scramble drill. He’s learning every day as well; this is a new system for him. I’m excited; I have nothing but optimism when I look at Sam as a quarterback.”"

Gaining respect and confidence from teammates is absolutely essential. Especially considering Darnold was devoid of this throughout his time with the New York Jets.

This is a much better environment to be in. Something that Darnold clearly doesn’t want to waste.