That growth shows itself in a multitude of ways. On defense, there is a young core group, partnered with veterans like Derrick Brown, Jaycee Horn, Mike Jackson, and others, learning lessons that only come with experience and creating calluses that will pay dividends.
“We definitely proved to people just by the fight that we put in the whole season and that game that we deserve to be in that setting,” preached Smith-Wade, “a playoff setting, and perhaps a Super Bowl setting, but at the same time we didn’t get that big game.
“We can be a playoff-contending team and a little bit more. I mean, if you’re not trending in the other direction, what are you doing? So, we have the leaders to do so. We have a staple in our core values and our philosophy, and what we want to take and to go forward.”
On offense, the Panthers have seemingly found their long-term quarterback, top two receivers, and an identity in the run game that can carry them for the foreseeable future.