The Carolina Panthers have opened their training camp with a fresh roster and a distinct sense of purpose under the guidance of new Head Coach Dave Canales. Focusing on competition and teamwork, Canales impressed upon his players the importance of pushing themselves through a mentality geared toward daily improvement. "A big part of what I have to do to teach this team is, we’re not competing against each other, we’re not competing against another team, we are competing to find our best on a daily basis," Canales stated in an interview obtained by QC News.
The training camp ambiance retained a hint of familiarity, with the setting reminiscent of the first day of school, although the Panthers are swiveling through numerous adjustments, including a new coach and GM. Cornerback Jaycee Horn, reeling in the new atmosphere while juggling the slight envy of veterans who get to retreat to their homes after a grueling day, remarked, "It felt kind of weird at first, just seeing the fans out here and stuff like that, but just a whole new vibe, new practice field, a new look. It was fun," as told to Panthers.com. Despite changes, the team camaraderie was not to falter, with even limited locker room amenities like one ping-pong table unable to deter the spirit among the players.
At this juncture, it's Dan Morgan, the team's new general manager, who's preaching the need to be patient and diligently adhere to the strategic plan laid out for the Panthers. Addressing the past failures of the franchise to produce long-term success, Morgan emphasized his approach, saying, "What I do know is there is a lot of work ahead of us, not only from a personnel standpoint but from the players. ... In terms of playoffs, we will reach that goal when we’re ready. But I think right now we are focused on today and tomorrow and getting better as a team." according to a statement reported by WCNC.
Comparing Young’s potential trajectory to other quarterbacks he has worked with, Morgan believes that Young's work ethic is a precursor to success. “Bryce is a hard worker just like Josh is and Russell is, so hopefully we see that progression. I wouldn't doubt it at all,” he told WCNC. As the Panthers move forward, Morgan's steadfast philosophy might be the comforting resolve that fans, eager to snap a six-year playoff drought, need to hear.
