Which Carolina Panthers players have emerged as surprising standouts throughout the opening OTA sessions of the 2023 preparation period?
It's been great to see the Carolina Panthers going about their preparations with supreme professionalism and purpose throughout organized team activities over the last fortnight. There are no gimmicks, no college-type rules and regulations, or a lack of motivation - just all business as players and staff look to put the right foundations in place for a much-improved campaign.
This stage of the offseason is all about implementing strategies and schemes without too much pressure on the players. However, it also represents the opening chance for those fighting for roster spots or improved depth positions to catch the eye.
Everyone is starting with a clean slate under Frank Reich and his staff. There are some interesting battles unfolding already, so it'll be interesting to witness certain individuals come to the fore as the summer progresses.
With that in mind, here are four surprising standouts from Panthers OTAs so far.
Rejzohn Wright - Carolina Panthers CB
There's been almost no investment in the cornerback room where the Carolina Panthers are concerned throughout the offseason. This means an unfancied prospect like Rejzohn Wright could force his way into the team's plans with an outstanding preparation period under his belt.
Make no mistake, the undrafted free agent is off to a good start. Wright looks poised, unafraid of the big moment, and is taking on significant challenges along the way.
Not only this, but Wright is holding his own against more established pass-catchers. Something that should stand the defensive back in superb stead as the summer goes on.
Derek Wright - Carolina Panthers WR
After catching the eye significantly during the 2022 preparation period, many were surprised when Derek Wright didn't make the Carolina Panthers' 53-man roster. However, those in power saw enough in the talented wide receiver to keep him on the practice squad.
This enabled Wright to be around the franchise and gain additional experience in the practice field. The former undrafted free agent was elevated to the roster in October for one game and signed a reserve/futures deal once the campaign concluded, but the jury was still out as to whether or not he had any long-term future in Carolina.
Wright has begun setting out his stall early this offseason. He's been nothing short of outstanding throughout OTAs so far, coming up with some huge plays and developing tremendous chemistry with rookie quarterback Bryce Young for good measure.
It's a big step in the right direction for Wright. However, there is a lot of hard work ahead before confidence can increase in the wideout's chances of going one better this time around and earning a roster spot.
The Panthers brought in three new wideouts who could generate substantial reps after trading D.J. Moore to the Chicago Bears. It will be difficult for Wright all things considered, but he's off to a pretty good start during the opening fortnight of OTAs.
Shy Tuttle - Carolina Panthers DT
When the Carolina Panthers spend big bucks on bringing Ejiro Evero into the building as their new defensive coordinator, it was evident changes to personnel should also arrive. The future head coach is switching to his 3-4 base scheme inspired by Vic Fangio's system, which adds another fascinating dynamic to the upcoming campaign given the talent already at the team's disposal.
One notable addition to the ranks came in the form of Shy Tuttle. The nose tackle joined in free agency from the New Orleans Saints and has wasted no time stamping his authority on Carolina's defensive front.
Tuttle is a capable performer and has four seasons' worth of experience under his belt. While hitting the ground running was a possibility, many have been shocked at the lineman's size and extremely smooth transition throughout the opening two weeks of OTAs.
The former Tennessee star is getting a decent push at the line of scrimmage and altering throwing angles consistently. Tuttle also managed to bat down a Bryce Young ball during an open practice at Bank of America Stadium, which brought the haters out in full force regarding the No. 1 pick's frame and how it might impact his NFL production.
It's a significant positive for the Panthers. If this trend continues throughout the coming months, then Carolina might boast a supreme anchor on the interior in Tuttle that can be counted upon to make plays in key moments.
Jammie Robinson - Carolina Panthers DB
When Jammie Robinson had to wait until pick No. 145 in the 2023 NFL Draft to hear his name called, it was all the motivation he needed to prove people wrong. There is a fierce edge to the defensive back that's hard not to love and the fire is now burning brighter than ever before after being overlooked until the Carolina Panthers made their move.
Robinson has some hybrid qualities that can be useful within defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero's system. The Panthers have the option to utilize the former Florida State star as a third safety option when required, with the player's athleticism also indicating he could become a physical nickel cornerback if everything clicks into place.
The fifth-round selection caught the eye at Carolina's rookie minicamp and has done the same throughout OTAs so far. Robinson doesn't take out of place among veteran players with more experience, which is no doubt a big confidence boost in pursuit of immediate involvement as a rookie.
If Robinson is good enough and demonstrates the same poise during the preseason, then Carolina's coaching staff will have no option other than to throw him into the deep end right out of the gate. There might be a few growing pains, but having such a strong character with a chip on his shoulder could be a surprise some teams don't see coming.