I just watched the presser on Luke at panthers.com, and I got very strong idea of what he brings to the Panthers beyond awards, stats, and combine numbers. He engaged the press in a very direct, open, and unrelenting way: a motor that is evident even in the presser. Rather than sheepish and repetitive responses that are typical for this sort of format (post draft selection theater), his answers were sharp, to the point, and he seemed to lean in. I would not say that he bullied this press group, but he was in total control, and could go on for an hour more: rather than laugh off pressing questions he moved on with a rational confidence.

I recognize that ever one is not in love with this idea (shout out to PT) and they are moving through the steps of acceptance (Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, and Acceptance). Posts on last night Open Thread seemed to move pretty fast through all five stages.

Bottom line, more players have shown more emotion (sobbing), and more generic appreciation (just looking forward to getting started, helping out where I can), but none (and I am looking at you Luck) have eschewed the "awe shucks" avoidance strategy, and powered through an interview as Luke did. This might be rose-colored glasses, 20/20 hopes… so be it. He is a BAMF. Takes one (Rivera) to know one.