The Panthers held a “Fanfest” practice last night at Bank of America Stadium. While there wasn’t the traditional crowd or scrimmage, we did learn some interesting things about this team.
For one thing, four rookies were wearing black jerseys, which means they are in line for starting positions on defense. That includes defensive tackle Derrick Brown, defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos, hybrid DB/LB Jeremy Chinn and cornerback Troy Pride Jr., who grew up rooting for the Panthers in South Carolina. When he was asked if starting is important to him by Joe Person at the Athletic, here’s what he had to say.
“Yeah. To be the ultimate competitor, I want to be out there. I feel that I’m the best suited, the best individual to be out there. So, yeah absolutely, to start, to play, to showcase my talents — but at the same time, it’s to get better. It’s to help my team, be the best for myself, be the best for my team.”
Pride also said he likes the idea of the black jerseys, as it gives players something to work toward.
As to where Pride will be playing, it could be one of two spots. Pride is in the mix for the competition to start outside opposite Donte Jackson along with Eli Apple, Corn Elder and TJ Green. He has also been getting reps at nickel. That versatility is something coach Matt Rhule has mentioned as one thing he likes about Pride.
Panthers fans should get used to the idea of not pigenholing players at specific positions, especially not on defense. Everyone from Kawann Short to Jeremy Chinn and Pride have been lining up at multiple spots at camp.
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