South Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE — For all the changes the Carolina Panthers have experienced this offseason — a new coach, general manager, and significant roster adjustments — the fundamental shift in training camp location stands out. The first day of training camp at Bank of America Stadium offered a sense of familiarity for the players.

Cornerback Jaycee Horn expressed his approval of staying at home. "Yeah, I like it," Horn said. "It felt kind of weird at first, just seeing the fans out here and stuff like that, but just a whole new vibe, new practice field, a new look. It was fun. We still got the same work in. So it was good."

Players with four years or fewer experience are required to stay in nearby hotels while veterans can stay at their residences. Horn commented on this arrangement: "I'm still young, so I've got to stay in the hotel rooms, but some of the vets get to go home, and I'd be kinda jealous after the day, but it's all good. It's part of camp."

The hotel accommodations are an upgrade from dorms at Wofford College where they previously trained. However, measures have been taken to recreate some aspects of being away from home.

"I mean, we still do meetings and stuff out of here," Horn said. "But it still adds to the team camaraderie, being around the guys because you can't go nowhere after curfew."

Head coach Dave Canales addressed fans before practice began and appreciated their presence. "I just think about the advantage of it is for our community as well," Canales said. "To be able to come, to be around us, creating those moments for our guys... I love the noise. I love the music. I love the fans being here so that they can just lock in and execute and do their job at the highest level."

On Wednesday's practice session, quarterback Bryce Young frequently connected with wide receiver Diontae Johnson. Coach Canales noted their growing chemistry: "I think it's just for Bryce learning this mover; Diontae is a special mover... So I've watched them just kind of grow that chemistry."

Young also targeted Jonathan Mingo and Xavier Legette successfully during practice.

Canales remarked on maintaining intensity despite not having full contact yet: "I can tell guys were just chomping at the bit to get out there and get to work... That's what this time of year is about... getting back to the intensity."

The training camp's urban setting in downtown Charlotte provides a unique backdrop compared to past locations.

Fans enjoyed shaded bleachers and frozen treats provided by Morris Jenkins on warmer days.

Bryce Young was noted as one of the first players on-field signing autographs before beginning his warm-up routine.

Backup safety Alex Cook made an impressive play by intercepting Andy Dalton and scoring a touchdown during practice.

Outside linebacker DJ Johnson spent much time running on the side due to recent illness and missed conditioning tests.

Overall, training camp's opening day highlighted key player interactions and community engagement amidst ongoing preparations for upcoming football activities.

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