Head coach Dave Canales confirmed that most of his starting options will play in the Carolina Panthers' second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. It won't be for long, but the coaching staff wants to get them valuable time on the field in a game-day setting after tempers boiled over at training camp.
The Panthers held a team meeting outlining the standards expected as lines were crossed in recent days. It was always going to be feisty, but protecting your teammates is the primary objective. Considering how many key men are currently on the shelf with long-term injuries, this bears special significance for Carolina.
The message was received. Day 11 of training camp (including Fan Fest) was still a high-tempo session, but emotions were kept in check. And as always, reports suggested that some stood out more than others.
Here are four Panthers players who caught the eye in Charlotte.
Supreme standouts from Carolina Panthers 2026 training camp Day 11
Monroe Freeling, OT
The Panthers are giving Monroe Freeling a crash course in what it takes to be a competent starting right tackle after Taylor Moton's injury. And this involves competing heavily against big-money edge rusher Jaelan Phillips.
Freeling is responding positively to the challenge, according to reports. He's not winning every rep, but the No. 19 overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft is holding his own. And there were two reps, in particular, that saw the Georgia product display his technical improvements versus the relentless pass-rusher.
These are all positive steps from Freeling. And fans will get the chance to see him in a game-day setting for the first time during Carolina's preseason game against the Bills.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR
After his AP Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign, wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan wanted to get bigger and stronger this offseason. He achieved this objective, and the results are speaking for themselves this summer.
McMillan is having no trouble getting off press coverage at the line of scrimmage, which was a little more complicated last season. He's put on muscle mass but kept the same explosiveness and fluidity, which makes him a dangerous obstacle to overcome.
If the same trend continues heading into the regular season, McMillan will be on the fast track to superstardom.
Chau Smith-Wade, DB
It'll be interesting to see what the Panthers have planned for defensive back Chau Smith-Wade this season. He's clearly got some good anticipation and can make plays on the ball when he's in position, but being more disciplined is the key to his progression.
Based on reports, this was a good day for Smith-Wade. He looked sticky in coverage and came up with an interception off backup quarterback Kenny Pickett. While Corey Thornton remains the favorite to start in the nickel, the Washington State product is still fighting hard.
And experimenting with him more as a coverage safety could be a route to keeping him on the field.
Xavier Legette, WR
After getting criticized from every angle this offseason, wide receiver Xavier Legette is focusing on what he can control. He's moving in silence, staying true to his craft while also making some notable improvements in his quest to finally put everything together.
He's now fully recovered from a stinger after a nasty fall, and Legette looks sharp. The 2024 first-round pick out of South Carolina is creating separation, the chemistry with quarterback Bryce Young is improving, and the technical aspects of being a pass-catcher are coming along nicely.
Legette has never had a problem standing out over the summer. But when hope was fading rapidly, he could be capable of much more when the real action arrives.
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