Panthers' July 31 camp sees Bryce Young tested by a physical defense, while Hunter Renfrow shines. Get the latest on the team's new identity under Canales.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The dog days of summer are in full swing in Charlotte, and the Carolina Panthers are matching the intensity. Thursday's training camp practice was a showcase of the new, physical identity head coach Dave Canales is instilling, highlighted by a 'welcome to the league' moment for quarterback Bryce Young. While the offense saw a new connection blossom, the defense made it clear that nothing will come easy in 2025.
'He's really playing at top form right now. I'm really excited to have him here.' - Head Coach Dave Canales on Hunter Renfrow
If Coach Dave Canales wanted a physical, competitive camp, he's getting it. The most talked-about play of the day came when rookie outside linebacker Princely Umanmielen burst through the line and stripped the ball from franchise quarterback Bryce Young. While no one wants to see their QB1 hit the turf, the play was a clear signal of the defense's aggressive mindset. Canales has voiced high expectations, stating, 'I think the sky's the limit for this group,' and it's this type of iron-sharpens-iron competition in practice that will determine if they can reach that potential. The team is building on the positive momentum from last season, with the belief that this tougher environment will help Young take a significant leap in his sophomore year.
While the defense was making noise, a new offensive weapon was quietly making his case. Veteran receiver and local product Hunter Renfrow has been a standout, earning high praise from his new head coach. 'He's really playing at top form right now,' Canales said Thursday. 'I'm really excited to have him here.' Renfrow's sharp route-running and reliable hands are exactly what this offense needs to support Young. His emergence is timely, as the team continues to churn the bottom of the receiver depth chart, releasing veteran Dan Chisena and signing rookie Ja'seem Reed in a move that underscores the fierce competition for roster spots.
The battles on the field aren't the only ones the Panthers are facing. With extreme Charlotte heat bearing down, the team is getting creative to stay safe and effective. Massive cooling trailers and other technologies are being used to help players recover between drills. These measures are especially critical as construction continues on the team's new indoor practice facility, forcing all camp activities to remain outdoors for now. It's a test of endurance and discipline, forcing the team to overcome adversity before they even play a down.
The intensity is palpable, and the message from Dave Canales is clear: a tougher, more competitive brand of football has arrived in Charlotte. While it's still just practice, the early signs point to a team forging a new identity. All eyes will now turn to the first real test: the preseason opener against the Cleveland Browns on August 7th, where fans will get their first look at this revamped Panthers squad in game action.
