The Carolina Panthers will kick off training camp on July 23 with players arriving July 22. Changes ripple through the roster at almost every spot. Bryce Young enters his contract year as the starter after tossing 3,011 yards with 23 touchdowns against 11 interceptions last season.
According to Panthers.com,, Young plays under his fifth-year option. He rushed for two more scores during the 2025 campaign. The quarterback landed at No. 98 on the NFL Top 100 list this year.
The quarterback depth chart shifted Wednesday when Will Grier announced his retirement. Kenny Pickett, who signed as a free agent after bouncing around the last two years, will serve as Young’s backup. Rookie Haynes King spent three years at Georgia Tech and is expected to get more reps while competing for the final roster spot.
Chuba Hubbard returns as the lead runner after splitting duties with Rico Dowdle last season. Elijah Brooks works his way back from an ACL tear that cost him over a year and a half of playing time. AJ Dillon will have to fight for a roster spot in a crowded backfield.
Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker have been named as the top two receivers heading into camp. McMillan came in at No. 87 on the Top 100 list but dealt with a foot issue during most offseason work. Coker took first-team reps at several positions as a result.
Xavier Legette faces a prove-it year after showing flashes of production. John Metchie has built chemistry with Young. DJ Moore knows the offense better than anyone. Jaycee Horn brings speed to the competition, while Brycen Tremayne has proven himself on special teams. Chris Brazzell offers a combination of speed and body control.
The tight end group finished with 78 receptions for 638 yards and five touchdowns last season. Tommy Sanders led with 29 catches but missed the final week and playoff game because of a broken ankle suffered in Week 17. He has taken part in offseason work.
The interior offensive line returns Robert Hunt and Chandler Zavala after injuries disrupted last season. Luke Fortner enters after Austin Corbett’s departure in free agency. Taylor Moton anchors the right tackle spot.
Ikem Ekwonu has no set timeline for his return from a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee suffered during the playoff game. Rasheed Walker signed from the Packers and battles rookie Monroe Freeling at left tackle. Freeling has taken first-team reps at right tackle when Moton receives veteran rest days.