The WR competition is really heating up just when I thought the six spots were settled. The key factor is Brentson Bersin's ribs. If he isn't ready by Sept 8th then that might open the door for one of these guys.
Five observations from Wednesday’s practice
4. Norwood flashes as deep threat: Wide receiver Kevin Norwood played in only one game last season, but Wednesday he reeled in three long passes up the sideline for scores. Although not facing heavy pressure, his breakaway speed could provide Newton and the Panthers another deep passing weapon. It’s been a good stretch for Norwood, who showed his toughness in the Panthers’ last preseason game by quickly bouncing back from a big hit to find the end zone.
Besides Norwood everyone was raving about this guy today:
Don't Give Up on Keyarris Garrett Just Yet
"He had a big day," coach Ron Rivera said. "Believe me, I was talking about it. I called some coaches over and pointed it out."
They counted four great catches by Garrett in Wednesday's practice. Here's another view on Garrett:
"He’s (Garrett) been really good in his route running," he said. "He relied on his great athletic ability, his natural skills as a receiver when he was in college. Now that he’s in the league you’ve got to be more precise and a better route runner. "He’s done that. ... He’s a young guy that looks like he might have a good future."
Will it be enough to warrant a roster spot? Depends on whether we think another team might pilfer him.
The secondary is another area very unsettled. The final spots at safety and CB will be decided during these last two games.
Philly Doesn't Practice, Safety Shortage, Status Quo With Short
S Dean Marlowe (hamstring) and S Marcus Ball (undisclosed) didn't practice and S Trenton Robinson underwent surgery for a torn pec muscle. With the Panthers down to four healthy safeties (Kurt Coleman, Tre Boston, Colin Jones, Travell Dixon), WR Miles Shuler spent some time as a scout team safety.
It like Miles Shuler will do anything to make the roster, even change positions (just kidding).
Five observations from Tuesday's practice
Cornerback Robert McClain has taken a back seat to the rookies in terms of reps and attention, but Rivera has liked what he’s seen from the veteran. "A guy like Robert doesn’t need a lot of reps in terms of learning. At the same time, I think it helped to push Robert," Rivera said. One play in particular stood out to Rivera when he met with the media after practice. "Today was a great example. He made a smart, headsy play," Rivera said. "The receiver catches the ball near the sideline, and he carries him out of bounds. That’s perfectly legal. It’s something we’ll use as an example for our young guys."
I think I like Lou Young over McClain but they make a good point about keeping the veteran experience over the youth.