Carolina Panthers tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders recently became one of the most important people at work.
The 22-year-old pass catcher hit the lectern for some questions following Saturday’s session of training camp. Sanders told reporters that he’s feeling more confident in himself entering his second NFL season, which is a byproduct of the lessons he learned from his first.
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“Really just becoming more of a pro, on and off the field,” Sanders stated. “Like, the guys I had in my room last year definitely helped me a lot. Like, we had [Jordan Matthews] last year—he was one of those main guys helping me become a pro off the field—taking care of my body, eating right. That was something I really focused on this year.”
Sanders may assume a more featured role for Carolina in Year No. 2, especially with the uncertainty surrounding the health of starter Tommy Tremble. Tremble, who is currently on the active/physically unable to perform after undergoing back surgery in May, is still in the rehabilitation stage of his recovery.
As Sanders alluded to, his offseason preparation should help him take that step up for the Panthers.
“I was probably like 255 [pounds] last year, like 238 right now,” Sanders later added. “So definitely moving faster. Being able to get in and out my breaks better as well.”
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The Panthers selected Sanders in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft. He went on to record 33 catches for 342 yards and a touchdown in 16 games as a rookie.
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This article originally appeared on Panthers Wire: Panthers training camp: TE Ja’Tavion Sanders faster after weight loss