Carolina Panthers kick off 2024 training camp with optimism for Bryce Young, but the release of Josey Jewell creates new challenges for the defense. (July 2025)
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Charlotte air was thick with optimism as the Carolina Panthers officially opened training camp on Wednesday. All eyes were on second-year quarterback Bryce Young, who carries the momentum of a strong finish to last season and the hopes of a city hungry for a winner. But the positive vibes were tempered by a dose of reality, as a surprise roster move and a growing list of key players on the mend served as a stark reminder of the hurdles this team must clear on the road back to relevance.
This city has a lot of hope. They want a winner, and you can feel it.
The buzz is real. After a rookie season of growth, Bryce Young is commanding the offense with a confidence that's palpable. With a full offseason under head coach Dave Canales' system, the connection between the two is expected to be a major driver of success. The energy was best summed up by guard Robert Hunt, who told reporters, 'This city has a lot of hope. They want a winner, and you can feel it.' That feeling starts and ends with No. 9's development, and early signs suggest he's ready to make the leap.
While the offense is generating excitement, the defense experienced a significant shakeup. The team made the tough decision to release veteran linebacker Josey Jewell due to persistent concussion symptoms, a blow to the team's planned starting lineup. However, the front office moved quickly, officially signing 2025 second-round pick Nic Scourton to his four-year rookie deal. The athletic outside linebacker is now expected to compete for immediate snaps. The biggest question mark, however, remains Derrick Brown. The All-Pro defensive tackle, recovering from a torn meniscus that wiped out most of his 2024 season, is participating in walk-throughs but not yet cleared for contact. His return is critical for a defensive turnaround.
The Panthers' training staff will be busy. Several key players are starting camp on the sidelines. Tight end Tommy Tremble (back) and receiver Dan Chisena were placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. They join rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, who continues to rehab from his ACL surgery. The list of players questionable for Week 1 is also concerning, featuring defensive tackles Derrick Brown and Bobby Brown III, and linebacker D.J. Wonnum. Getting this group healthy will be a top priority before the preseason kicks off.
Don't sleep on the third phase of the game. Camp is hosting wide-open competitions for key special teams roles. The returner job is a battle between rookies, with wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. and running back Trevor Etienne both vying to provide a spark. At kicker, it's Matthew Wright vs. Ryan Fitzgerald for the starting gig. Even veteran punter Sam Martin is facing competition to keep his job. These under-the-radar battles will go a long way in shaping the final 53-man roster.
Day one is in the books, and the narrative for the 2025 Panthers is already taking shape: a promising offense led by a developing star, and a defense undergoing a trial by fire. The coming weeks will be crucial. Can the defense gel with new faces like Nic Scourton? How quickly can stars like Derrick Brown and Jonathon Brooks return to full strength? And can Bryce Young turn all this offseason optimism into regular-season wins? Keep it locked here, Panthers fans, because training camp is just getting started.
