Physicality, Reps, and Protection: What the Panthers Need This Preseason

Physicality, Reps, and Protection: What the Panthers Need This Preseason originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Last preseason, the Carolina Panthers made a concerted effort to build around rookie quarterback Bryce Young, selecting what they believed to be a dynamic offensive weapon and placing their trust in a newly assembled leadership team—headlined by head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan. With Canales earning early praise as a "quarterback whisperer," expectations surrounding Young’s development were understandably high.

However, one critical decision from that preseason drew scrutiny: Young played just a single drive across all preseason action. Statistically, his brief appearance was impressive—completing 6 of 8 passes for 75 yards and a touchdown, resulting in a QBR of 140.6. Yet, context matters. The performance came against the Buffalo Bills’ second-team defense, prompting two major concerns: why did the Panthers’ first-team offense struggle against a reserve unit, and why was such a promising young quarterback given so few in-game reps? For a player expected to anchor the franchise for years to come, live-game experience is invaluable—especially during a critical developmental phase.

This year, it appears Canales is taking a different approach. He has confirmed that starters will play in both the first and second preseason games, signaling a clear shift in philosophy. Offensive lineman Austin Corbett recently spoke about the importance of live reps, noting the value of getting “a couple looks” in real-game situations—both at home and on the road—to establish rhythm and game-day routines. Corbett also stressed the need for the Panthers to “improve early in the season, and lock in to find our process to get ready for in-game situations so that when Week 1 in Jacksonville comes, we’re ready.”

This year’s preseason isn’t just about evaluation—it’s about sharpening the team’s identity and setting a foundation for sustained growth. Canales seems intent on finding the right balance between caution and preparedness, giving starters enough playing time to build chemistry while still protecting long-term health.

On The Drive with Tim Donnelly, Donnelly echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that the Panthers must use this preseason to redefine their physical identity. He pointed out that in recent years, the roster lacked the type of explosive, physical talent required to compete in a league where size and speed often dictate success. Addressing that deficiency doesn’t rest on any one position. Donnelly argued that physicality needs to become a theme throughout the roster—especially on offense. He praised the addition of rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan as a potential step in that direction, saying that if McMillan can show off his physical traits consistently in camp, he could be a real asset in reshaping the offense.

However, Donnelly also acknowledged early reports from Fan Fest, which noted that McMillan was struggling to get off press coverage and needed to improve his release at the line of scrimmage. Still, he reminded listeners that those issues are common for rookies and shouldn’t overshadow the bigger picture. What he wants to see are flashes—moments when McMillan or others make observers think, “Oh, he’s different, and there’s nothing we can do about it.”

He extended that same expectation across the board. While players like Jimmy Horn Jr. may be smaller in stature, Donnelly pointed out that elite speed can still separate a receiver in today’s NFL. He also raised questions about first-round pick Xavier Legette’s physicality, especially as he recovers from foot surgery. The hope is that Legette can elevate his game once healthy and become a matchup problem.

Play-calling is another area under the microscope. Donnelly isn’t asking for the playbook to “pop off” in the preseason, but he wants to see creativity and rhythm from Canales—along with a clear effort to give Young as many meaningful reps as possible. That includes keeping the first-team unit on the field when Young is playing. The young quarterback doesn’t benefit much from working with second- or third-string teammates. Repetition with the full starting lineup is crucial as the Panthers attempt to fast-track his development.

Ultimately, this preseason is about more than just checking boxes. It’s about building an identity that’s more physical, more prepared, and more competitive. If the Panthers can achieve that, they’ll enter Week 1 in Jacksonville with momentum—and purpose.

Above all, one truth remains clear: Bryce Young needs to be protected at all costs. His growth, confidence, and long-term success hinge not just on his talent, but on the foundation the team builds around him—starting now.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 6, 2025, where it first appeared.