Carolina Panthers open 2025 training camp, but key TE Tommy Tremble lands on the PUP list. See how rookies Jimmy Horn Jr. and others look to make an impact.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The unmistakable buzz of a new season filled the air at Bank of America Stadium today as the Carolina Panthers' rookie class officially reported for training camp. While the arrival of fresh talent brings a wave of optimism, the day was also marked by sobering roster moves, reminding fans that the path forward is never without its hurdles.
Tight end Tommy Tremble, fresh off signing a new two-year deal with $8 million guaranteed, was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform list following his offseason back surgery.
The future is now, or at least it's in the building. The 2025 rookie class, including potential special teams dynamos Jimmy Horn Jr. and Trevor Etienne, arrived in Charlotte to get a head start on their NFL careers. Their immediate task will be to impress coaches in drills and carve out roles, particularly on special teams. The kicking competition is also officially underway, with newcomers Matthew Wright and Ryan Fitzgerald set to battle for the starting job. They'll be working closely with veteran long snapper J.J. Jansen, a steadying presence for a specialist group in transition.
The optimism of camp's opening day was tempered by significant injury news. As expected, tight end Tommy Tremble was placed on the PUP list as he continues to recover from a May back surgery. While not a surprise, his absence creates a major question mark on offense. Joining him on the PUP list is receiver Dan Chisena, while newly signed punter Sam Martin landed on the non-football injury list. The team will need others to step up in their absence, particularly in the tight end room where Tremble was expected to be a key contributor after catching 23 passes for 324 yards and two scores last season.
With several players starting camp on the sidelines, the front office is already churning the bottom of the roster. The team hosted a large workout on Monday, featuring a dozen prospects looking for a shot. The most notable name was former Pitt defensive end Nate Matlack, who posted 7.5 tackles for loss and 4.0 sacks in his final collegiate season. This flurry of activity signals that General Manager Dan Morgan is leaving no stone unturned in the quest for depth and competition at every position.
With rookies now in the building, the 2025 season has officially begun. The immediate focus shifts to the health of key veterans and which young players can seize the opportunity presented by these early roster moves. All eyes will be on the tight end group and the kicking competition as the rest of the team prepares to join the newcomers later this week. The journey back to relevance is a marathon, and the first steps were taken today.
