2025 Panthers training camp superlatives

Predicting the most talked about players during the Carolina Panthers training camp

Training camp is just getting started and with it comes the unofficial beginning to a brand new season of Carolina Panthers football! Over the next few weeks, social media is going to be ablaze with updates on every single rep of training camp as we all clamor for updates on every player and position battle like it will be the difference between the 1st overall pick and the super bowl.

To commemorate the occasion, let’s take it back to the high school yearbook days and give out some predictions on a handful of ‘awards’ that we as fans tend to give out during this time of year – it’s time for superlatives.

Offseason warrior – Given to the player who’s shown the most improvement since last season

My pick: Trevin Wallace, LB

Going to start off with an underdog pick, as there are plenty of options to choose from this category. Last year, beginning in camp and extending into the season, Wallace showed a penchant for creating turnovers or otherwise creating big plays. With a full year under his belt to develop the instincts he lacked at times in his rookie year and the opportunity thrust upon him after Josey Jewell has left the team, Wallace is in prime position to make an impact.

Highlight machine – Given to the player who has the most viral clip on social media

My pick: Tetairoa McMillan, WR

In my mind, this is inevitable. Newly minted top-10 overall selections at skill positions are already primed to garner a lot of media coverage – so the camera is going to be on him for every single rep. With a 6’4 frame built to make big plays in tight coverage, it feels like only a matter of time.

Zero to hero – The Panther with no expectations that becomes a bright spot and may even make the roster

My pick: Mapalo Mwansa, OLB

While there was some initial excitement when the team announced their signing of Mwansa right after the draft through the International Player Pathway program, many other stories have taken back the spotlight. Mwansa is a 20 year old atheltic speciman with almost no experience with American football but has the opportunity of a lifetime. Call me a sucker for good stories, but I think Mwansa’s raw speed and agility will make for some notable moments in camp.

Instant fan favorite – Given to a first year Panther who won the fan’s hearts before a game is even played

My pick: Tershawn Wharton, DT

Having the nickname “Turk” is a strong start, but the energy seen by fans in the numerous clips of him posted by the Panthers digital media team. I expect to see many more fun mic’d up moments from Wharton as the team rallies around the new addition. The two time Super Bowl champ and priority free agent target also has the skills to show up for a position group that desperately needed some reinforcements which can only help his cause. We also share a deep love for red velvet cake, so there’s that too.

Rookie standout – Given to the rookie who made the biggest name for himself during training camp

My pick: Princely Umanmielen, OLB

The obvious choice here might be McMillan, but with how desperate the Panthers are for a pass rush specialist I think Umanmielen has a great opportunity. Umanmielen was a lethal pass rusher in college who had some of the most impressive advanced stats in the draft class. With a chip on his shoulder from falling to the 3rd round and all the tools necessary to succeed, I think he’s primed to make life difficult for opposing offensive tackles in August.

MVP – Given to the Most Valuable Panther during training camp

My pick: Bryce Young, QB

Much like the actual MVP award given out at the end of the NFL season, it’s hard to give it to anyone else other than the quarterback. After finishing off the season playing like a top 10 quarterback in the NFL, it seems like the young signal caller remained locked in to improving himself and his teammates throughout the offseason. Time will tell if that work paid dividends, but I like his odds.

Feel free to comment below with your selections for each category using the template below:

Offseason warrior –

Highlight machine –

Zero to hero –

Instant fan favorite –

Rookie standout –

MVP –