Expectations remain high on Day 2 of Panthers training camp

SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Expectations remained high on Day 2 of the Carolina Panthers training camp in Spartanburg but some of that “first day of school” energy had disappeared.

Head coach Frank Reich said the first half was sharp but there was a lull about midway through, particularly with the offensive.

INFO: Know before you go: Carolina Panthers training camp, fan fest

No one is expecting perfection at this time of the season with the amount of turnover with the roster and coaching staff.

It all starts with quarterback Bryce Young, 22, who is building a solid rapport with his skill and impressing players with poise and confidence.

It’s not just his on-field demeanor that matters. Wide receiver DJ Chark said Thursday that connecting with Young on a personal level can give the pair an edge on the field.

There is a sense that the defense had something brewing this week.

Brian Burns said he never considered not showing up to camp even though his contract extension talks continue, knowing he’s a critical piece in what the team is building.

Shaq Thompson stood firm in his decision to stay with Carolina, even signing for less money, if it meant keeping the unit intact.

There is no practice Friday, but the Panthers will pick it back up Saturday morning.

Panthers name No. 1 pick Bryce Young team’s Week 1 starting QB

The Carolina Panthers’ first practice at training camp came to a close Wednesday with a big announcement.

Coach Frank Reich wasted no time naming rookie Bryce Young as the team’s starting quarterback for the Sept. 10 regular-season opener against the Atlanta Falcons. Reich said Wednesday,

“Yes, he’s our QB1.”

The announcement came after the completion of Young’s first NFL training camp practice at Wofford College, although the news seemed imminent after Young took over first-team reps from veteran Andy Dalton back during organized team activities.

He will become the first rookie to start on Week 1 for the Panthers since Cam Newton in 2021. Reich vowed to be patient as Young develops as a quarterback.

The 2021 Heisman Trophy winner from Alabama says his expectations are to push his teammates to get better every day and keep stacking good days of work at training camp.

The Panthers have not been to the playoffs since 2017 and the No. 1 overall draft pick has been entrusted with returning Carolina to relevance in the NFC South.