Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales addressed the media on Bryce Young sitting out the first preseason contest, Julius Peppers’ inspiring message, and the team’s progress in training camp. Canales also expressed confidence in backup QBs Jack Plummer and Jake Luton as Young sits out.
Here is what we learned with the preseason opener just two days away.
Optimism in Camp
Canales expressed satisfaction with the team’s progress.
“The rhythms of it, the guys are getting used to the cadences of what we’re doing. The offense looked good, there were some good rhythmic plays that happened.”
“We got some great full-speed reps,” Canales added. “During our punt and punt return sessions, we were able to collect valuable information. We practiced in pads for half of the day, and the energy and intent felt right. We’ll need to watch the film to assess the execution, but the offense looked good. There were some good rhythmic plays that happened.”
Quarterback Bryce Young will not play in Thursday’s preseason opener against the Panthers, as Canales takes a cautious approach. “For this game, he will not play,” Canales stated. “We’ll evaluate it week by week and see if we need to get him out there in this system for a couple of series. That is something I have done in the past. With Young and Andy Dalton (Quad) out, rookie Jack Plummer and experienced Jake Luton will face the Patriots. Canales was confident in Plummer and Luton’s ability.
“I’ve learned the guy’s a hard worker,” Canales said on Plummer. “I feel like he’s been really sharp. He’s a great athlete. Love his mobility and just got a really cool demeanor about him. I’m excited about that and we brought in Jake Luton as well a guy that’s been around a couple of different teams I was with him in Seattle for a little bit so a guy that knows how to play football and function that’s what we really needed.”
Canales also highlighted the value of this opportunity for the rookie Plummer, stating, “This is going to be so valuable for him and for his career and development.”
