5 major observations from Day 1 of Panthers 2022 mandatory minicamp

Steve Wilks’ positive impact on CJ Henderson

This offseason is an important one for CJ Henderson. The former first-round pick has failed to meet expectations so far and if he doesn’t make strides next time around, it will only raise concerns about his long-term future in the league.

Henderson has reportedly been working hard this offseason in the hope of earning prominent reps on the cornerback rotation. He certainly has the talent – the player’s production at Florida dictates that – but it just hasn’t come together at the next level as yet and this is something the Carolina Panthers are banking on after acquiring him from the Jacksonville Jaguars last year.

Shaq Thompson revealed that Henderson has looked the part this offseason and has made notable strides. The outside linebacker added that new defensive backs coach Steve Wilks is having a really positive effect on the player heading into Year 3 of his professional career.

Wilks is among the best in the business at what he does. When he talks, players normally listen and if Henderson can also take on board his coach’s vast knowledge, the Panthers might just have themselves another game-changing presence in the secondary.

It’ll be a long, hard road for Henderson this summer. One that he can hopefully emerge from with credit and a better player providing there are no complications on the health front.