South Charlotte Today

The Panthers have experienced their first significant injury setback of training camp, with safety and special teams standout Sam Franklin Jr. suffering a broken foot during the Back Together Saturday practice at Bank of America Stadium. Head coach Dave Canales expressed hope that Franklin would be able to return during the regular season.

"That's a huge hit for us," Canales said. "He's a fantastic spirited guy, really the leader of the special teams unit and as someone that we're really going to count on. So, we've got to make sure we hit this rehab the right way, and Sam will come back to us at the right time."

Franklin has played multiple roles on special teams and started nine games in his career, including making impact plays such as last year's 99-yard interception return for a touchdown against the Vikings. To fill his absence, Canales mentioned several players who could step up, including cornerbacks D'Shawn Jamison and Dicaprio Bootle, running back Mike Boone, and outside linebacker Amaré Barno.

"You can't replace Sam Franklin, but this is a great opportunity for guys to step up," Canales added.

Additionally, wide receiver Daewood Davis was carted off after an injury during 1-on-1 drills. He is being evaluated for a thigh injury. Right guard Damien Lewis was limited due to shoulder soreness while linebacker Shaq Thompson (illness) and tight end Tommy Tremble (hamstring) were also sidelined.

Despite these setbacks, practice continued with high energy levels from defensive players like Jaycee Horn. "I love it," Canales said regarding Horn's vocal presence on the field.

Rookie Xavier Legette has brought both energy and mild confusion to the receivers' room due to his accent which sometimes puzzles position coach Rob Moore.

"Everybody was looking at me as the country guy on the team," Jonathan Mingo said humorously about Legette joining the team.

Looking ahead, Canales mentioned that they would be practicing in full pads tomorrow and Thursday’s Fan Fest practice at Clemson will be treated as an intrasquad scrimmage.

"So we'll get to bang tomorrow," he noted optimistically about upcoming practices.

Quarterback Bryce Young showed promise by hitting deep shots downfield during Monday's practice. "Especially when the play does break down, he's keeping his eyes up," Canales commented on Young’s performance.

The interaction between Horn and receivers Thielen, Legette, and Diontae Johnson was highlighted as beneficial for sharpening techniques through competitive challenges.

Former linebacker Thomas Davis was present at Monday's practice among other team Legends contributing regularly throughout camp.