What were some major observations to take from what turned out to be a fascinating rookie minicamp for the Carolina Panthers in 2023?
It was probably a relief for those involved to get themselves back firmly focused on football once again after an exhausting pre-draft process. The Carolina Panthers picks in 2023 and other hopefuls looking to carve out their own path participated in the team's rookie minicamp this weekend, which was the first chance to witness Bryce Young in his new gear after becoming the No. 1 overall selection.
Young took the limelight, which wasn't surprising in the circumstances. However, head coach Frank Reich was obviously impressed by the application of those further down the pecking order and plans to sign one or two that were invited for tryouts.
There isn't much time for these first-year players to reflect on the minicamp. OTAs are set to begin on Monday, which sees veterans and rookies join together for the first time under Carolina's all-star coaching staff.
Before we look ahead, here are four major observations from the Panthers' rookie minicamp in 2023.
Major Observation No. 1
Carolina Panthers have an imposing presence in Chandler Zavala
It didn't take long to spot Chandler Zavala when he stepped onto the field. The mammoth interior offensive lineman is an imposing presence that could potentially carve out a role for himself immediately given the injury concerns surrounding Austin Corbett, who is expected to miss some regular-season time after tearing his ACL in Week 18 against the New Orleans Saints.
According to those in attendance, Zavala made a notable impression thanks to an eye-catching blend of power and athleticism. Something that could come in handy as a core rotational piece at worst during his rookie campaign.
Carolina Panthers got a glimpse of Jonathan Mingo's potential
While there were a few eyebrows raised when the Carolina Panthers ignored key needs at cornerback and edge rusher to select wide receiver Jonathan Mingo at No. 39 overall, that does not detract from what a special talent he could become. Something we saw a glimpse of throughout the team's rookie minicamp this weekend.
Mingo made his intentions clear throughout. He was on the field early, brought energy to almost every play, and began developing chemistry with quarterback Bryce Young along the way.
This is the start of what the Panthers hope will be a fruitful long-term partnership between the two. If that wasn't enough, Mingo also received some valuable pointers from Steve Smith Sr. on the first day.
The Panthers legend was a big believer in Mingo throughout the evaluation process. Smith's opinion was also sought by team owner David Tepper before their second-round pick became official.
Mingo's next task will be to impose himself when the likes of Terrace Marshall Jr., D.J. Chark, Adam Thielen, and tight end Hayden Hurst are all pushing for targets. This is a much more difficult proposition, but not impossible by any stretch.
Carolina Panthers saw urgency from D.J. Johnson
There's no doubt the selection that provoked the most debate was trading up for D.J. Johnson at No. 80 overall. This is the sort of athletic prospect normally coveted by Carolina Panthers general manager Scott Fitterer, but the six-year college player was seen as a reach given his initial projections as a Day 3 talent.
The Panthers clearly saw something in Johnson despite his age and relative lack of experience as an edge rusher. And with pass-rushing prospects on their board falling rapidly, those in power felt like it was a risk worth taking.
Johnson signed his rookie contract before the start of Carolina's minicamp. More importantly, the attitude and level of urgency he brought to practice caught the eye in no uncertain terms.
The former Oregon star showcased his explosiveness, quick-twitch capabilities, and heavy hands during drills. When speaking about working with such a progressive defensive mind in Ejiro Evero via the team's website, Johnson was confident the relationship will ensure he continues to blossom moving forward.
"He's an intense guy. But he's still light enough to where he enjoys it. Great to be around. I'm excited to be coached by him."D.J. Johnson via Panthers.com
Many remain critical of the pick, and that's fine. But don't be surprised if Johnson silences his doubters much sooner than anticipated.
Carolina Panthers have a tone-setter in Bryce Young
We get it, Bryce Young is small. This came to the fore once again when a video surfaced of the player in front of an offensive line that seemed to dwarf the quarterback - but it's something the Carolina Panthers are fully aware of and react to accordingly.
Young is an outlier and being the No. 1 overall selection isn't going to shrink the bullseye on his back, one suspects. However, the signal-caller wasted no time in setting the tone throughout the team's rookie minicamp - something that didn't go unnoticed by fans or the media in attendance.
The former Alabama star was on the field extremely early, was fully prepared, knew specific scheme assignments, and led from the front. Simply put, this is exactly what the Panthers wanted to see from Young during his opening taste of NFL practices.
Head coach Frank Reich stated that Andy Dalton will start with the first-team reps throughout OTAs. Young will get his fair share, so it'll be interesting to see how this dynamic unfolds as the offseason progresses.
The poise and accuracy were on full display, which is a large portion of what attracted Carolina to Young in the first place. There's a long way to go, but it's so far, so good.