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One of the best and most comprehensive features we offer every year is our Footballguys Preseason Updates. Every week this month, Bob Henry, Jason Wood, Clayton Gray, and their team of Footballguys Staffers cover every player that matters from every NFL team. It's 32-plus pages of some of the most comprehensive coverage you'll find. It's probably worth the Footballguys Premium Subscription by itself.
Updates from Week 4
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Bryce Young showed significant improvement and confidence during training camp, particularly in making off-script plays. Early in the week, coach Dave Canales deliberated on Young's participation in the final preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, ultimately deciding that the potential reward outweighed the risk. While Young played just 12 snaps on Saturday, he led the team to an opening-drive touchdown, something they did not achieve during his entire rookie season. Young finished 6-of-8 for 70 yards and that score. With Jake Luton sidelined and put on IR, the depth chart has Young as the undisputed starter, Andy Dalton as the backup, and Jack Plummer in an emergency role. Although Dalton missed a large part of camp and did not play in the preseason, the team knows what he brings and values his veteran presence. Plummer, though raw, continues to show improvement every week and played well after taking over for Young. He came in after Young against Buffalo, completing 21-of-29 passes for 278 yards and adding two more scores.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
With rookie Jonathon Brooks set to miss the first month of the season, Chuba Hubbard will open the season as the starter at running back. Canales has spent the preseason emphasizing that the running game will be central to his offense, so Hubbard could see a good workload until Brooks returns. Hubbard saw his first carries of the preseason this week, running for 15 yards on three touches with the starters. Miles Sanders will play a backup role, similar to what he did in 2023, hopefully with better results. He registered just six yards against the Bills. Behind them, Raheem Blackshear is the No. 3 running back, and his role on special teams solidifies his roster spot. The team might also hold onto Mike Boone while waiting for Brooks' return. Boone finished the preseason strong and made a case for the final running back spot.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Both leading receivers, Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen, faced challenges leading up to the final preseason game against the Bills. Johnson initially had a leg injury scare early in the week but was able to return after only missing a few reps. However, he later fell ill and was given a day off and quarantined from the team as a precaution. Ultimately, he ended up being fine. Thielen, on the other hand, is dealing with a calf injury and played most of the week with his leg wrapped. Despite these setbacks, both players appeared in the game and caught a ball from Young on the opening drive. Johnson and Thielen will lead the receiving corps this season, followed by Xavier Legette, Terrace Marshall, and Jonathan Mingo. Legette, who has strengthened his connection with Young since returning from a foot injury, is still working on growing his role in the offense. Marshall and Mingo have had good camps, with Marshall scoring a touchdown and recording 36 yards on three catches in the final preseason game. With the emphasis on the running game, the spotlight remains on the duo of Johnson and Thielen. Marshall's name even appears as a cut or trade candidate as the team slims down to its final 53.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
With co-starters Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas dealing with early injuries, the backup tight ends led the group during the preseason. Although Tommy Tremble has returned to practice this week, the coaches are being cautious by limiting his playing time. As a precaution, Tremble missed the game against Buffalo, and neither he nor Thomas played a snap in the preseason. Rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders showcased promise as a pass catcher in their absence. However, he still needs to develop as a blocker to become a full-time player. Fourth-string tight end Jordan Matthews had an impressive camp as a former receiver transitioning to tight end. Though he scored the game's first touchdown and caught three balls, his spot on the team is still uncertain. His touchdown also highlighted the group's potential in the red zone.
Preseason Updates: Defense
During the final week of camp, injuries, especially at the cornerback position, plagued the defense. Lamar Jackson's strong camp was cut short by a knee injury, leading to his subsequent release from the team. With starting cornerback Dane Jackson still out, Dicaprio Bootle and D'Shawn Jamison were tasked with stepping up at practice, playing opposite team leader Jaycee Horn. Rookie cornerback Chau Smith-Wade also transitioned to an outside corner role after playing nickel for his entire career. Ultimately, the Panthers traded for Michael Jackson from the Seattle Seahawks, solidifying their starting lineup with Jackson and Jaycee Horn. Troy Hill is set to play in the nickel position. Despite the injuries at cornerback, the team is buoyed by the depth at safety. Xavier Woods and Jordan Fuller will lead that group. Still, the team could keep up to six safeties on the final roster after a strong camp from rookie Demani Richardson. Rookie linebacker Trevin Wallace probably had the best camp on defense and continues to showcase his prowess in the passing game, securing another interception in practice this week after picking off Aaron Rodgers last week. He also added five tackles against the Bills. Woods, Horn, defensive lineman Derrick Brown, and linebacker Shaq Thompson will anchor the defense. All missed some time in the preseason, but the days they were all there were the best for the defensive unit.
Preseason Updates: Returners
With Raheem Blackshear (kickoffs) and Ihmir Smith-Marsette (punts), the team has a pair of strong, veteran returners heading into 2024.
Updates from Week 3
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Bryce Young continues to impress with his mobility and comfort in and out of the pocket. Adam Thielen notes that Young looks more at ease this year than in his rookie season. Thielen said, “Maybe some of those throws, he wouldn't have even attempted last year. I don't know why, but I would imagine a lot of it is just comfort in the system and what he's doing in his footwork.” Despite some interceptions, Coach Dave Canales remains unfazed, believing they are part of the learning process. Interestingly, in joint practices this week, Young had his best days of camp against the Jets' strong defense. We even saw the long ball come into play as Young connected on several deep routes. Backup Andy Dalton returned to the field this week, working on individual throwing drills. He is not yet ready for full practice. Young, Dalton, and almost every other starter have been sidelined for both preseason games as the team focuses on preserving their healthy players. This strategy has allowed rookie Jack Plummer to play as the primary quarterback in the preseason, with Jake Luton taking on a backup role, though neither has been impressive. Plummer managed 42 yards on 18 attempts, and Luton only threw two passes in Saturday’s game.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
During practice with the Jets, Chuba Hubbard, who will be the starting back, sustained a knee injury, though, fortunately, it was not serious. While Hubbard was sidelined, Raheem Blackshear made an impact with some impressive runs. Hubbard and Tommy Tremble dedicated extra time after each practice to work on their receiving skills, aiming to improve in that area. During the game against New York, Mike Boone and Dillon Johnson were the only active running backs. The top backs, Hubbard, Miles Sanders, Jonathon Brooks, and Blackshear were inactive this week. Johnson took the lead in the backfield with those starters missing time. He ran for a team-high 83 yards and scored the team’s only touchdown. While Johnson had a solid game, more importantly, the game plan against the Jets showcased the team's commitment to a run-heavy offense. Dillon’s touchdown was the Panthers' first of the preseason. If this were a regular game, Hubbard would've played the role occupied by Johnson, and he is excited about what that means for the offense. Meanwhile, Johnson's chances of making the final roster seem uncertain due to the team's depth at running back.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
It is increasingly clear that Diontae Johnson will be a focal point of the passing game. When Bryce Young scrambles, he often finds Johnson. The Young-to-Johnson pass play has become a staple of camp. Despite a mild groin injury, Johnson should be ready for Week 1. Jonathan Mingo and Terrace Marshall have been performing well in practice, too. However, their success has yet to translate to the preseason games. Marshall stepped up in Johnson's absence during practice, catching two touchdowns from Young in red zone drills against the Jets. In the game, Marshall caught just two balls for 14 yards, and Mingo had one reception for four yards. Additionally, Xavier Legette has returned to practice, albeit just in individual drills, as the team eases him back from a foot injury. He has made it known that he wants to play in the final preseason game. Deven Thompkins was unfortunately released after getting injured early in the week.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Tommy Tremble, listed as the co-starter at tight end, returned to practice this week. As noted earlier, he's been spending a lot of time working on his receiving skills with Chuba Hubbard after practices. The other starter, Ian Thomas, is still about a week away from returning to practice. In Thomas' absence, Ja’Tavion Sanders led the team in receiving yards against the Jets, though that only required two catches for 22 yards. Coaches are impressed with backup Jordan Matthews' work ethic and growth as he transitioned to tight end.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Defensive lineman Derrick Brown has been dominant, batting down passes at the line of scrimmage throughout practice, which he has done consistently throughout his career. Shaq Thompson, the leader on defense, returned to practice this week but was limited to individual drills. Defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero was happy to see Thompson back, saying, “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.” In Thompson’s absence, rookie linebacker Trevin Wallace has stepped up, even intercepting Aaron Rodgers in practice. Unfortunately, injuries in the secondary have arisen at a critical time, with starting cornerback Dane Jackson likely to miss six weeks due to a hamstring injury. Starting safety Xavier Woods is also dealing with a groin injury, though not as severe as Jackson's. Cornerback Lamar Jackson's strong performance against New York has positioned him to push for a starting role in light of Dane Jackson's injury. The team sent an offer to free-agent cornerback Stephon Gilmore, though he chose to sign with Minnesota. On a positive note, safety Demani Richardson is vying for a backup safety role, showcasing impressive performances with multiple interceptions in practice and adding another during the game against New York.
Preseason Updates: Offensive Lines
New head coach Dave Canales emphasizes a run-first, play-action, gap-man scheme, which plays into the strengths of this group, especially third-year left tackle Ikem Ekwonu. This player struggled last season, but the inconsistency around the team likely hurt his development. The team spent big at the guard position this offseason, bringing in established veterans right guard Robert Hunt (Miami) and left guard Damien Lewis (Seattle). This investment helps Ekwonu and allows Austin Corbett to move to his natural center position. Right tackle Taylor Moton remains a stalwart. This line ranks 20th overall but is seventh in run blocking.
Updates from Week 2
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's Preseason Insights: What You Need To Know This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Head coach Dave Canales announced early on that Bryce Young would miss the first preseason game against the Patriots, emphasizing that protecting Young is the priority. "You can't play scared, but you've got to be smart," Canales said regarding the risk of injury. He acknowledged that Young getting reps with the new center, Austin Corbett, will be crucial before the season starts, but he also didn’t rule out the possibility of Young sitting for the entire preseason. Young’s ability to improvise and make off-schedule plays has been a highlight during camp. This style of play has led to more short and intermediate passes than the typical Canales offense, but they plan to incorporate more deep passes as camp progresses.
With Young and the injured Andy Dalton missing the Patriots game, the Panthers signed Jake Luton to compete with Jack Plummer for the third quarterback spot. Plummer started the preseason game and had a rough outing, completing 11 of 21 passes for 86 yards and getting sacked five times. Luton, who briefly played under Canales with the Seahawks, did not fare much better, completing 7 of 9 passes for just 38 yards. The Panthers managed only three points in the matchup. Both Plummer and Luton will see significant action this preseason. Plummer has been taking more snaps than expected for a third-string quarterback, which Canales sees as a valuable opportunity to assess his potential.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Despite the absence of rookie running back Jonathon Brooks due to injury, running the ball remains a crucial aspect of the offensive identity. Canales said the run would be the key to his offense. Miles Sanders, looking to rebound from a disappointing season, feels much better after an Achilles injury in minicamps and is eager for the preseason. Sanders said, "I ain't going to lie, I don't want to talk about last year, but last year left a real bad taste in my mouth. I'm not blaming nobody but myself. I'm just ready to play. I'm ready to have a better season."
Though Canales spoke highly of Sanders’ recent play, Chuba Hubbard continues to lead the running back group in practice. This trend will likely continue into the regular season until Brooks is able to return. Hubbard, Sanders, and third-string back Raheem Blackshear all sat out the preseason game, so Mike Boone took over backfield duties, rushing for 34 yards on eight carries.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
Diontae Johnson has been building strong chemistry with Bryce Young, particularly on plays where Young has to improvise. Johnson’s ability to read Young’s movements and get open has been a highlight. Jonathan Mingo has been one of the standout performers in camp, showing noticeable improvement from last year, likely due to offseason work with Panthers legend Steve Smith on his footwork. Mingo was the only projected starting receiver to play in the preseason game. However, both he and Terrace Marshall struggled, each dropping passes in the first quarter. Xavier Legette had a scare early this week, leaving practice with a foot injury, but X-rays revealed no structural damage. While Legette hasn’t made many big plays in camp, avoiding serious injury was a relief. Meanwhile, Deven Thompkins is having a solid camp but faces tough competition in a crowded receiver room as he fights for a roster spot.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
Initially expected to be brought along slowly, rookie Ja’Tavion Sanders may now see an accelerated role due to injuries in the tight end group. While Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas were listed as co-starters on the initial depth chart, both are currently sidelined. Sanders praised Tremble and Thomas for helping him transition to the pro game. Sanders has shown significant improvement in practice, even catching a touchdown from Bryce Young on a beautifully executed RPO play. However, coaches acknowledge that while he is excelling as a receiver, there is still room to grow as a run blocker. The team brought in former Eagles receiver Jordan Matthews to be a camp body, but he has stepped up as a tight end, leading the team in receiving in the first preseason game. Matthews now has an outside chance at a roster spot following the release of Stephen Sullivan.s
Preseason Updates: Kickers
Rookie Harrison Mevis made his only field goal attempt in the first preseason game, but the Panthers released him on Sunday. Eddy Pineiro will be the Panthers’ kicker this season, leaving Mevis available to 31 other teams.
Preseason Updates: Defense
Defensive lineman T.J. Smith has had a strong camp and played most of the preseason game due to injuries on the defensive line. Cornerback Lamar Jackson took advantage of the starters resting in the first game, catching the coaches’ attention as he fights for a roster spot. Outside linebacker Eku Leota had a standout preseason game, drawing comparisons to former Panther Frankie Luvu. With the team in need of pass rushers, Leota’s performance could earn him a spot on the roster. Safety Alex Cook led the team in tackles on Thursday and aims to fill the role vacated by Sam Franklin, who is out with a broken foot, though Canales described Franklin as irreplaceable on special teams.
While the starters did not play against the Patriots, Jaycee Horn continues establishing himself as a top cornerback at practice, consistently winning one-on-one matchups against Diontae Johnson. The pass rush has been a focal point for the front seven, but last year’s third-round linebacker, DJ Johnson, is earning praise as a run-stopper. Veteran safety Xavier Woods stated that he has nothing to prove in 2024 and that he and the team are focused on winning more than two games. Woods continues to be a steady presence in the secondary. With linebacker Shaq Thompson missing time, third-round rookie Trevin Wallace has looked good, contributing on special teams and stepping up when needed on defense.
Preseason Updates: Returners
Raheem Blackshear (kickoffs) and Ihmir Smith-Marsette (punts) provide a pair of strong, veteran returners heading into 2024.
Updates from Week 1
If you're in a hurry, check out Joe Bryant's What You Need To Know From Every Team This Week.
Preseason Updates: Quarterbacks
Bryce Young has shown promising growth during the first week of camp. Coach Dave Canales praised Young's "aggressive eyes," highlighting his quick decision-making. Wide receiver Jonathan Mingo emphasized staying alert for scramble opportunities due to Young's shifty movements. Young's ability to throw on the run is becoming more evident. He excelled at such throws in college, though less frequently as a rookie. A significant focus of the camp has been on applying pressure to Young, which he has managed well, though there's room for improvement. Coach Canales acknowledged Young's smart decisions and ball protection, emphasizing smart team football. Young has been spreading the ball effectively and showing accuracy. With backup quarterback Andy Dalton sidelined due to a quad injury, undrafted rookie Jack Plummer is currently the backup. The team plans to bring in additional quarterbacks for the preseason games.
Preseason Updates: Running Backs
Rookie running back Jonathon Brooks, still rehabbing from a torn ACL, will not participate in the preseason and is expected to play only by the third or fourth game of the regular season. According to Canales, this was the plan when the Panthers drafted Brooks. “It’s something that we expected, even just coming into the spring, we just knew that the timeline and the progression of where he was at,” Canales said. “We knew we were not going to have him for the preseason. And even if he was kind of ready, you know, it’s still a confidence thing.” In Brooks' absence, Miles Sanders and Chuba Hubbard are splitting first-team reps, with Hubbard taking a leading role. Coach Canales appreciates Hubbard's play style, saying, “This guy, he means it. He runs angry, and he runs with a style that we want to be about. I can’t wait to give Chuba those opportunities to really champion those guys that bring that kind of toughness.” Meanwhile, Sanders is excelling in a potential third-down role, showcasing his ability to catch the ball well during camp. The retirement of Rashaad Penny opened a roster spot for rookie Dillon Johnson, who was recently released by Tennessee. He’ll compete with Raheem Blackshear for a role.
Preseason Updates: Wide Receivers
The connection between Bryce Young and Diontae Johnson is strengthening with each practice, positioning Johnson as the team's go-to receiver. However, during the first padded practice of camp, Adam Thielen was once again the top receiver, consistently winning one-on-one matchups against the team's top corner, Jaycee Horn. Thielen was the leading receiver last year and could make an impact again in 2024. Jonathan Mingo is demonstrating increased confidence in his route running and looks like a different receiver in Year 2. Although Terrace Marshall is working with the second team, he is making highlight-reel plays and having a standout camp. Marshall and Mingo are arguably having the best camps among the receivers. Meanwhile, rookie Xavier Legette has yet to make many significant plays as he competes with Mingo for the third receiver spot.
Preseason Updates: Tight Ends
The Panthers' tight end group has faced a challenging training camp due to injuries. Presumed starter Tommy Tremble is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, Stephen Sullivan has been placed on IR with a season-ending quad injury, and Ian Thomas is likely out until Week 1 of the regular season. With these setbacks, the team plans to bring in another tight end soon. Tremble is expected to return within the next week and should seize the starting role, though Thomas was having a strong camp before his calf injury. Coach Canales has emphasized the importance of multiple sets in their strategy this season. In the meantime, rookie Ja'Tavion Sanders has taken advantage of his time as the starter, showing "exponential growth" in his technique, according to Canales.
Preseason Updates: Kickers
The new regime decided to bring in a rookie (Harrison Mevis) to challenge Eddy Pineiro, and so far, it appears to be an open competition. The Panthers have been alternating kickers daily, and head coach Dave Canales said he will not rush the decision. He said he’d like to “drag it out as long as possible for them to show us what they can do” and didn’t appear to have a preference so far based on his comments.
Preseason Updates: Defense
The Panthers' defense is also dealing with injuries, most notably with linebacker Shaq Thompson sidelined by a hamstring injury and backup safety Sam Franklin, a special teams leader, expected to miss time into the regular season with a broken foot. Meanwhile, Jadeveon Clowney has been generating good pressure, so much so that Canales credited Clowney’s absence as a reason the offense won the final drive of the week’s last scrimmage. Outside of Clowney, the Panthers' edge rusher situation looks uncertain, and the team may seek additional help if current players don't step up. Meanwhile, cornerback Jaycee Horn is stepping into a vocal leadership role on defense, and the team has added former Cowboys cornerback Anthony Brown to bolster their secondary.
