Derrick Brown has resumed a leading role in the Carolina Panthers’ run defense as he continues his return from injury during training camp. Brown, who set an NFL record for tackles by a defensive lineman with 103 in 2023, is participating in a structured return-to-play program after missing most of last season due to a torn meniscus and recently dealing with a rib/oblique issue.
His presence was noted during Monday’s practice, which took place under rainy conditions in Charlotte. Patrick Jones II, one of the team’s pass-rushers, described the impact Brown makes on the field. “You can feel a huge difference,” Jones said. “DB, you know, he’s a great player, so just his presence alone out there, it just, you could just feel the difference, you could feel the just the energy, the physicality on the line.”
Head coach Dave Canales also commented on Brown’s performance and influence: “Derrick Brown practiced today, you know, that’s kind of where the story went with the run game stuff, front side or backside. He was just bringing it every play.” Canales added that Brown’s work ethic sets an example for younger players and elevates overall team performance. “I think the guys kind of feed off of that energy and create some different issues, you know, for us upfront. And I was really excited about that,” he said.
The Panthers focused on strengthening their defensive line during free agency after struggling against the run last season. The return of Brown is seen as crucial to those efforts. When Brown lines up alongside Bobby Brown III and A’Shawn Robinson on the front line, it creates more opportunities for pass rushers such as Jones and rookies D.J. Wonnum, Nic Scourton, and Princely Umanmielen.
Jones reflected on his approach to training camp: “Every day I go out there, I just try to go out there and just really get a feel for the defense, the guys I’m rushing with, and really just get back in that flow. That’s what training camp is all about.”
He also emphasized building trust among teammates: “It’s just about all gaining experience,” Jones said. “Really just, as we rush together, just learning to trust each other more, learning how to rush off each other, and then we’re just going to keep doing that every day, and we’re going to keep getting better.”
