5 major standouts from Week 1 of Panthers 2022 training camp
By Dean Jones
Xavier Woods – Carolina Panthers S
One could make a case that Xavier Woods has become something of a forgotten man since joining the Carolina Panthers in free agency. The safety wasn’t able to participate in early workouts due to a personal matter, but this extra time to study has enabled the former sixth-round selection to hit the ground running in training camp.
Woods received praise from head coach Matt Rhule for his transition into the starting rotation and his ability to communicate from the backend. This is something that is sure to benefit the Panthers and stud defensive back Jeremy Chinn, who didn’t have a consistent presence alongside him in 2021 thanks to poor form and injuries.
The Louisiana Tech product has the chance to change all that in an instant. Woods reinvigorated his career last season with the Minnesota Vikings and seems ready to build on this positive momentum in Carolina.
Having a veteran presence in the secondary has been noticeable. Woods hasn’t been afraid to make his feelings known and he’s been constantly talking with teammates to get them in the right positions, which is encouraging considering it’s his first experience in Phil Snow’s system.
The Panthers are betting on Woods becoming a significant factor next season and beyond. And there’s little doubt he’s made a promising start to life with the organization.