The Carolina Panthers are back in the swing of things after a short period of rest. They are also brimming with confidence after getting their preseason slate off to an impressive start with a last-gasp victory over the Arizona Cardinals.
It's a small detail, but momentum is everything at this time of year.
The Panthers have been dealt some tough blows on the injury front this summer, but the resolve in the locker room remains strong. If they can keep stacking wins, head coach Dave Canales' squad stands a good chance of hitting the ground running when the real action commences.
Carolina is at the stage when training camp can become tedious. Getting the chance to hit other people in joint practices and warm-up games is much more enticing to the players now. But for those in power, it's a constant assessment to see where things stand and what more may be required for a successful NFC South title defense.
With this in mind, here are four winners and two losers from the second week of Carolina's training camp in Charlotte.
Winners and losers from Week 2 of Carolina Panthers' 2026 training camp
Winner: Ja'seem Reed, WR
It's been another productive few days for wide receiver Ja'seem Reed. The athletic pass-catcher continues to stand out, making big plays in camp while also shining during Carolina's preseason opener against the Arizona Cardinals.
With rookie third-rounder Chris Brazzell II out for the season with a torn LCL, there is an opening for Reed to make the 53-man roster. And he's doing everything in his power to get noticed.
Loser: Trevin Wallace, LB
The Panthers pulled off a coup with the signing of Devin Lloyd in free agency. But there remains concern around the other linebacker spot within Ejiro Evero's 3-4 front.
These doubts largely surround Trevin Wallace. He's not showing enough right now, and his inconsistencies in coverage were once again exposed versus Arizona. If he doesn't pick things up soon, the Panthers may be forced into drastic action.
Winner: Haynes King, QB
Even though undrafted rookie quarterback Haynes King is now week to week with a hamstring injury sustained on his game-winning touchdown run, it's been a positive few days overall. His comfort level is growing, and shining on his preseason debut was another solid step in the right direction.
King remains behind Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett in the pecking order. But if the Georgia Tech can get back quickly, he stands a decent chance of making the squad.
Winner: Jimmy Horn Jr., WR
Jimmy Horn Jr. is an interesting case. Some believe he is right on the roster bubble entering Year 2 of his professional career, but there are growing signs of encouraging development that have strengthened his chances of sticking around.
Horn's ability to separate has made strides. He's more purposeful after the catch, and he's got the speed to make a difference. Couple this with his increased usage in the return game, and the signs are positive.
Loser: Saahdiq Charles, OL
Just when it looked like Saahdiq Charles might be in line for a key backup role, the luckless offensive lineman was hit with another cruel calf injury. The Panthers were not going to wait around, and the former LSU standout was released without much fanfare attached.
This has been the disappointing tale of Charles' career so far. And there is just no telling where he goes from here.
Winner: Brady Christensen, OL
In contrast, Brady Christensen is starting to find his groove after being brought along gradually. The versatile offensive lineman is back in Carolina after finally getting the all-clear to resume football activities following a torn Achilles tendon. And he is now expected to fill a key rotational spot once again.
Having someone capable of playing anywhere along the offensive line is a big positive for the Panthers to depend upon. And if someone else gets hurt, Christensen has the tools needed to slot in seamlessly.
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