His dad knows well the pressure of being in the NFL and making it through the league. He’s also been a part of his son’s career at every step, coaching him through middle school and in 7-on-7, along with Drake Maye, Sam Hartman, and other Charlotte products. As such, he’ll try to come out to Saturday’s rookie minicamp practice both as a former player there for support and wisdom and as a dad, two sides of a man that aren’t merging into one but merely coexisting.
“I’m open and available if they want my opinion, but I don’t plan on overstepping what my role is, and that is as a supporter of the organization, as a former player, as a legend of the game, and somebody who has a vested interest in making sure that this program is successful. I mean, that’s just my role,” explained Muhammad II.
“So, if they ask me for something, I’m available and I have been that way since I retired and, and nothing about that is going to change. I mean, having a son on the team, I’m definitely praying for his success, and I know that it’s a competitive landscape, but I do have trust that the organization will make the best decisions for the program so the team is the best it can be and the organization is the best it can be. I have no doubts in that.”
In the meantime, Muhammad III will continue to make his way with the Panthers, fighting for a spot on what has become a deep receiving corps. And whenever he needs a reprieve, he’ll make the short trip home, where the JUGS machine will be waiting.