South Charlotte Today

CHARLOTTE – The Carolina Panthers saw the return of three key players to practice on Monday. Rookie receiver Xavier Legette, tight end Tommy Tremble, and linebacker Shaq Thompson participated in individual work and unit drills for the first time in over a week.

"He looked good," said defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero about Thompson. "He's picked up where he left off at. The one thing you don't have to worry about with Shaq, whether he's rehabbing or out there playing, is that he's going to be working his butt off."

The timing of their return is significant as the Panthers prepare for a joint practice with the New York Jets on Thursday. In anticipation of an intense session, head coach Dave Canales opted for a lighter practice on Monday.

Evero expressed enthusiasm about facing Aaron Rodgers again, recalling last year's joint practice as invaluable experience. "We get to see a different offense, see different people... just that level of communication and having to disguise everything," Evero noted.

Evero's defense finished last season in the top four of total defense and retained its entire staff along with half its starters. Facing Rodgers' extensive experience will serve as a crucial test.

"There's one specific play that happened down in the red zone... (Rodgers) just walked up to the line of scrimmage... pointing everything out," Evero recalled from last year’s practice. This moment underscored the importance of disguising defensive schemes effectively.

While Legette, Tremble, and Thompson returned to action, safety Xavier Woods took a veteran day off and receiver Diontae Johnson was held out.

Rookie safety Demani Richardson stood out during practice by intercepting two passes—one from Bryce Young and another from Jack Plummer—earning praise from teammates who celebrated his achievements enthusiastically.

Richardson's performances have been improving steadily since his rookie talent show debut where he performed "Candy Rain." Safety Jordan Fuller remarked on Richardson's growth: "So today during practice he had his best performance of all time."

Richardson's ability to play multiple positions has impressed Fuller: "There's not too many things that Demani can't do on the football field."

In other news, long snapper JJ Jansen made changes to his attire after being listed among the least swaggy players by teammates. With help from punter Johnny Hekker, Jansen added tights, an arm sleeve, and a visor to his helmet—a move declared successful by safety Nick Scott.

These behind-the-scenes interactions will be featured in Camp Confidential on the Panthers YouTube channel this week.

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