SPARTANBURG, S.C. — Training camp officially kicked off for the Carolina Panthers Wednesday and all eyes remain fixed on No. 1 overall draft pick Bryce Young.
The 2021 Heisman winner has earned praise from his coaches and teammates since arriving in Carolina and his performance in Wednesday's first practice was the latest example of his skill level. Young smoothly led the offense through drills, and to no one's surprise, has taken control of the position.
Head coach Frank Reich made it clear that Young is the team's starter and he's not worried the moment will be too big for him.
"This is a grown man," Reich said. "This is a stinkin' grown man. He's in control."
Reich also took a moment to soak in a full-circle moment, recalling how it felt entering the Wofford practice fields as the head coach of the team he played for in 1995. He admitted being the Panthers' head coach meant a little something more to him because of it.
No contract? No problem for Brian Burns
One of many questions facing the Panthers entering the 2023 season is the future of edge rusher Brian Burns. The 2019 first-round pick is entering the final year of his rookie deal. After reportedly turning down a blockbuster deal to keep Burns last season, it's clear the organization believes he's a critical part of the defense.
Despite not having a big-money extension signed, Burns told reporters Wednesday there was no question he would be at camp. The former Florida State standout said he missed being with his teammates and wants to show his value to the organization. Meanwhile, general manager Scott Fitterer said talks have been productive.
"It's not like we have to say it has to be done by this time or that time," Fitterer said. "We just keep talking. And when the time's right, and we make a deal that's right for him and right for us, that'd be great."
See the Panthers practice in person
As has always been the case, practices are free for fans to attend with opportunities for autographs and photos with players afterward. Fans can access free tickets through Ticketmaster's dedicated training camp page. The July 29 practice will feature the players, as well as Panthers entertainment performances from the Top Cats, Sirr Purr and more.
If you can't get down to Spartanburg, tickets are available for Fan Fest at Bank of America Stadium on Aug. 2. Tickets are $5 with proceeds going toward Carolina Panthers charities.
This year's training camp schedule includes two days of joint practices with the Jets and new quarterback Aaron Rodgers on Aug. 9 and 10. Following those joint practices, the team will leave Spartanburg for its first preseason game against the Jets at Bank of America Stadium.
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