Which Carolina Panthers news stories are hitting the headlines with the team's 2023 rookie minicamp concluded and focus turns to next week's OTAs?
There was plenty to engage fans and media alike as the Carolina Panthers put first-year players through their paces at the team's annual rookie minicamp. The primary focus was on Bryce Young and rightfully so, but there were one or two surprises that came to the fore in pursuit of opportunities moving forward.
Expect a couple of signings later today (Sunday) before the veterans get involved at OTAs next week. Among the stories causing debate recently include Frank Reich's foundation, the Panthers' plan for Young, D.J. Johnson's eagerness to silence his doubters, and ex-interim head coach Steve Wilks carving out a new path.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Story No. 1
D.J. Johnson keen to impress Carolina Panthers
One thing that became evident throughout the team's rookie minicamp was D.J. Johnson's desire. The edge rusher came in fully focused on the task at hand, displaying the sort of work ethic that went down extremely well with coaches.
The former Oregon star has obviously heard all the skepticism that arrived after the Carolina Panthers traded up to No. 80 overall and secure his service. When speaking to the media via the team's website, Johnson has set about silencing his doubters right out of the gate.
"Whenever you go into any new environment, you want to make sure you earn your stripes. Make sure … you're not just like, 'Oh, I made it.' Like no, I'm here to keep improving, like everybody else."D.J. Johnson via Panthers.com
This was a good start from Johnson's point of view. But what comes next throughout the summer will be of critical importance.
Former Carolina Panthers interim not thinking ahead
Some fans were obviously disappointed not to see Steve Wilks become Carolina Panthers head coach permanently after he completely galvanized the organization in the immediate aftermath of Matt Rhule's thoroughly deserved firing. However, one must also recognize the outstanding work done by Frank Reich throughout an unbelievable offseason since his appointment.
Wilks landed on his feet, to put it mildly. As San Francisco 49ers' defensive coordinator, the respected figure has the chance to coach an elite-level defense that is absolutely stacked with Pro Bowl or better talent across the board.
Many anticipate head coaching interviews during the next cycle for Wilks if this move goes as expected. But when speaking to the media via Pro Football Talk, the coach is keen to focus on the now rather than what might be ahead in his future.
"I’m going to tell you, and this is not just an answer to throw you off or anything like that, but I believe in being where your feet are. Be where your feet are and take care of what’s in front of you. I’ve always just tried to win the day. And that’s where I am right now, I’m not even looking beyond OTAs. I just want to make sure this defense is the best it can be and we’re going to continue to build this thing in layers."Steve Wilks via Pro Football Talk
This attitude will come as no surprise to Panthers fans, who saw Wilks adopt the same approach last season as Carolina almost managed to attain a shock NFC South title before faltering down the stretch. If the coordinator has a similar impact on San Francisco's defense looking at their personnel, they'll be the league's best unit in 2023.
Frank Reich on Carolina Panthers foundation for success
While optimism is high surrounding the Carolina Panthers in 2023, head coach Frank Reich is keen to keep everyone's feet on the ground. This is going to be a process and from a coaching standpoint, integrating so many new faces throughout the preparation period represents a step into the unknown in terms of what to expect from this group next season.
This stage of the offseason is about seeing what you have and constantly evaluating it. Reich will have a better indication of this after OTAs next week, but there is clearly a level of cautious excitement based on his comments via the team's website after Carolina's rookie minicamp concluded.
"We're very excited about the roster we have – really excited. I think that there's a lot of upside, but we don't know yet. And we've got to find out. So now's the time that we build the foundation to give us the best chance, so that when we step out there, we're ready to perform. But experience tells me, just make expectations more centered around getting prepared. Don't get caught up in the trap of, 'How many games are we going to win? Who do we play, and when?' That stuff will come."Frank Reich via Panthers.com
If those in power feel like they need a little more, then the Panthers have an abundance of salary-cap space to bring in another veteran or two. Something the team already managed this week by re-signing Michael Jordan and Cam Erving for offensive line depth.
Reich is experienced enough to realize getting carried away at this stage would be foolish. Even if this probably won't transition to a fanbase that's been starved of legitimate success for years.
Carolina Panthers plan for Bryce Young
Much has been made about Bryce Young starting OTAs behind Andy Dalton on the depth chart. Perhaps there's been an overreaction to this given the eagerness of fans to see their new face of the franchise in a prominent position early, but the Carolina Panthers are right to make the No. 1 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft earn it and avoid a sense of entitlement.
When discussing the plan for Young via The Panthers Wire, head coach Frank Reich stated that Dalton will take the first-team reps to open OTAs. However, there will be ample opportunities for Young to showcase his talent as Carolina looks to integrate him quickly.
"Yeah, Bryce will get a lot of reps. As we said—when he’s ready, when it’s best for the team, that’s when we’ll look to make a transition. Right now, we come back out Monday, Andy will be taking reps with the 1’s, Bryce will be with the 2’s. Bryce is gonna get a lot of reps. Likely even get a few more than Andy, just as the new guy. And the good thing with Andy is, he’s logged a lot in the last few weeks and as a savvy veteran, he still needs to work. But we’ll focus on getting Bryce, as the younger played, focused on getting him as many reps as we can."Frank Reich via The Panthers Wire
Mismanaging Young's reps in a similar way Matt Rhule did with Matt Corral last summer is simply not an option. The eventual goal is for the Alabama product to be on the field in Week 1 at the Atlanta Falcons, so everything must be directed to ensure this becomes a reality.
Should something drastic occur, the Panthers know that Dalton gives them a nice backup option. Although everyone associated with the franchise hopes it won't come down to that given the huge investment made in Young.