South Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE – The Panthers resumed practice on Saturday under intense heat and humidity, marking their hottest session to date. Head Coach Dave Canales noted the sluggish start, attributing it partly to the team coming off a rest day.

"Early on, we had a walk through, started a little flat," Canales stated post-practice.

Coaches became more vocal, pushing for greater effort until players Bryce Young and Derrick Brown rallied their teammates.

"It was really cool to see Bryce Young, to see Derrick Brown talk to the guys and say 'Ok, here we go, we don't get to waste any time. We're right back to work,'" said Canales. "And then by the time we got to practice, the energy that was there from the first drill all the way through the last."

Saturday's practice lacked pads but saw heightened enthusiasm during drills. Players were engaged in one-on-one contests and celebrated plays in the run game. For Young, entering his second year in the league, this leadership role is seen as a positive development.

"I love to see the growth day in and day out," commented right tackle Taylor Moton about Young. "I believe he's a tremendous leader and he's really stepped into that role."

Canales also addressed concerns over injuries within the tight end unit. Tommy Tremble remains about a week away from returning, while Ian Thomas is expected to rehab his calf up until close to Week 1 of the regular season on September 8.

"Our goal is to just get those guys back instead of forcing them back out here," Canales explained.

With limited options at tight end available for practice, Canales indicated plans are underway to bring in additional support soon.

"Really practicing with three tight ends is really iffy," he admitted. "So we're looking...to bring in [someone] in short order because we've got to be able to practice with a strong group."

Backup quarterback Andy Dalton participated lightly due to an ongoing quadricep injury but missed team drills again. As Dalton’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, another quarterback will be brought in before Thursday's preseason game.

"We're definitely going to bring a quarterback in," reiterated Canales.

The Panthers added two defensive backs on Saturday: safety Clayton Isbell and veteran corner Anthony Brown. Meanwhile, linebacker Shaq Thompson and offensive guard Damien Lewis continued their rehabilitation from minor injuries.

"The cool part is...the energy and intensity [in practices] is so high...these guys kind of can feel that if they're not quite right," remarked Canales regarding managing player health during practices.

Bryce Young’s connection with wide receiver Diontae Johnson continues improving daily. During Saturday's session, Young rolled out of the pocket and connected with Johnson near the sideline for an impressive play that energized spectators.

In other news, former Panther Julius Peppers was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Saturday. Although weather delays altered plans for live viewing by current players and staff wearing commemorative shirts featuring Peppers' number 90 across their chests, they intend to watch his induction speech later as scheduled allows.

"I had an opportunity to coach against him...a lot of high-level respect for him and really exciting for the organization," shared Canales about Peppers' achievement.

Complete coverage of Julius Peppers' Hall of Fame induction can be found [here].