The Carolina Panthers just wrapped up their first padded practice of the year. Here are a few takeaways from today’s practice from the team and the media.
Rookie DB Jeremy Chinn was on the field first
If showing up is half the battle, then rookie defensive back Jeremy Chinn is definitely off to a good start. The second-rounder was the first player on the field this morning, seen here hitting the sled.
Chinn will be a critical piece for this young Carolina defense. He says the Panthers are lining him up at safety, nickel, dime and in the box. Juston Burris for one says he will be great wherever they put him.
Injury updates
According to a report by the Charlotte Observer, starting left tackle and terrible Twitter follow Russell Okung left practice early again.
Coach Matt Rhule told reporters yesterday that Okung has been experiencing some tightness in his back. Leaving practice early to work with trainers in the pool is apparently just part of his regular routine.
Defensive tackle Kawann Short also got some attention from trainers but was well enough to practice.
In related news, Rhule says wide receiver Keith Kirkwood will be out “several weeks” with a shoulder injury and tight end Temarrick Hemingway is day-to-day with a head injury.
WRs Curtis Samuel, Omar Bayless continue to impress
Carolina’s strongest position group this year is wide receiver. Yesterday, Curtis Samuel earned strong reviews for his performance. That trend continued today after he made a circus catch. Undrafted rookie Omar Bayless also stood out to some observers.
Last week, coach Rhule said Bayless is learning the system and complimented his size and catch radius. The competition is going to be fierce, but we are projecting that Bayless will earn the last wide receiver spot on the roster this year.
Matt Rhule brings the energy
One common theme we have been hearing from the media is how fast and energetic Rhule’s first few full-speed practices have gone. Today, Rhule stepped in to take part in the defensive line drills, offering some laughs and run-through-a-brick-wall-for-this-guy kind of content.
It’s too early to tell what kind of coach Rhule is going to be in the NFL. This kind of enthusiasm can be infectious for a team, though.
Rhule also tried to instill some discipline, at one point making the defensive line do 10 push-ups during a team drill for jumping off-sides.
