The Carolina Panthers’ training camp continued with a sense of clarity and renewed purpose as Head Coach Dave Canales and quarterback Bryce Young took to the podium, offering insight into the team’s progress, mindset, and culture. The tone was both energetic and reflective, as both leaders laid out how the Panthers are evolving on and off the field.
Canales opened with praise for the team’s improved communication and developing chemistry, especially noting how the offense is starting to mold together under pressure from an aggressive defense. His overarching goal for camp is clear: unity. He emphasized that internal competition across all position groups is key to elevating practice intensity, energy, and intentionality. A moment involving rookie edge rusher Princely Umanmielen nearly making contact with Bryce Young served as a teaching point. While Canales applauded the effort and competitive fire, he underscored the importance of awareness during practice—especially when it comes to protecting key players. That mental switch from practice drills to live-play awareness, he said, is vital for player development.
Canales also addressed the recent release of veteran linebacker Josey Jewell, calling him a soft-spoken but impactful leader. While the team feels the loss, Canales emphasized that Jewell’s personal well-being takes precedence as he evaluates whether football remains in his future. When asked about what he’s learned about Bryce Young over the last year, Canales responded confidently: nothing has surprised him. He expects consistent leadership from Young and believes the growing familiarity between quarterback and system has deepened their working relationship. He praised Young’s growing communication skills, particularly his ability to interact with defensive backs and recognize calls with pre-snap motion. Injury updates included tight end Tommy Tremble, expected to be out another three to four weeks, and defensive lineman Bobby Brown, who has started running and changing direction.
When asked what defines a successful season, Canales didn’t talk about wins or stats. Instead, he emphasized communication and execution, stating his goal is to field a team so cohesive and intense that opponents don’t look forward to playing them.
Bryce Young followed at the podium with a light-hearted moment, playfully flipping the script by asking reporters to share their wildest offseason stories. One reporter mentioned witnessing a turtle nest hatch, prompting laughter. The conversation returned to Young, who shared that he had gone to a lake with teammates during the break but joked that he’s not much of a fan of being in the water.
On the football side, Young spoke highly of new wide receiver Hunter Renfrow, noting that Renfrow’s ability to read both man and zone coverage helps simplify his reads and allows for cleaner throws. He’s excited to build chemistry with the veteran receiver, praising his knack for creating separation. He also gave a strong endorsement of rookie wideout Tetairoa McMillan, highlighting his hunger to learn—from coaches, receivers, and anyone he can. “He’s always asking questions, always eager to improve,” Young said. “That gives me confidence, and honestly, T-Mac gives me confidence too. We feed off each other.”
When asked how he maintains energy during practices without fans, Young emphasized his love for the game and his gratitude for the opportunity to play it professionally. “This is a privilege,” he said. The competitive nature of camp—offense versus defense—fuels his focus and desire to lead. He believes the consistency the team is starting to show is crucial, and embracing the “Panther-first” mindset is what will define the team’s identity moving forward.
Closing the session, Young was asked whether he’d be interested in representing the United States in flag football if given the opportunity. With a smile, he called it “a huge honor” and spoke about the Olympics as an event rooted in pride and tradition. “That would be a great opportunity,” he said. “Anytime you get the chance to represent your country, it’s special.”
From leadership to light moments, the message from both Canales and Young was clear: the Panthers are building something with purpose—through communication, competition, and culture.
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