4 key observations from Panthers 2022 training camp practice Day 5

Carolina Panthers showcase the run game

The increased physicality that comes with padded practices saw offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo take this opportunity to showcase what the Carolina Panthers could do in the running game. Of course, the talent of Christian McCaffrey remains the focal point, but this was D’Onta Foreman’s best practice by a considerable margin according to multiple reports from those in attendance.

Everyone knows what McCaffrey can do at the peak of his powers. The Panthers have taken things slowly with the running back so far in camp – and with good reason – but there were one or two examples of his explosiveness behind a revamped protection.

Foreman worked with the second-string, which meant Bradley Bozeman and Ikem Ekwonu were plowing the road. Something that carved up enough lanes for the free-agent signing to demonstrate exactly what he can bring to the Panthers in 2022.

The more Foreman can contribute, the better. Carolina cannot rely solely on McCaffrey after the All-Pro featured just 10 times over the last two seasons, so the Texas product should be utilized in short-yardage and red-zone situations at the very least.

While the focus is obviously on Baker Mayfield and the quarterbacks, one couldn’t have been anything other than impressed by the tone-setting run game during the opening practice in pads.