After Carolina Panthers general manager Dave Gettleman met with reporters Tuesday, I asked him if any players had been pleasant surprises this summer.

While acknowledging he'd likely forget some guys, Gettleman mentioned six names. Here they are, along with his comments on each:

 

OL Chris Scott

 

Versatile lineman returned to practice this week after missing the past two preseason games with a shoulder injury.

"He's better, he's bigger, he's stronger, he's in better shape. Until he got hurt, he was having a really good camp."

 

LB Jeremy Cash

 

Former All-America safety looked like a fish out of water when he reported in the spring. Now at 220 pounds, Cash has turned into one of the roster's fastest risers.

"You know what it was? He played that bastard position — that's what it is — it was a bastard position he played in college. Then he drops down to 205 for his pro day because he wants to run fast. So what are we getting? He shows up, he's 212, and he's been a very pleasant surprise."

 

OT Donald Hawkins

 

Another Mike Remmers? Hawkins bounced around five teams and four practice squads before landing in Carolina. Has been the second team's LT since David Foucault struggled against the Ravens.

"He's doing things this year he's never done in his life. He's still got a ways to go, but he's really been a very pleasant surprise."

 

G David Yankey

 

Australia native was a 2-time All-America at Stanford before the Vikings took him in the 5th round of the 2014 draft.

"He's coming on."

 

RB Brandon Wegher

 

Hasn't repeated his head-turning 2015 preseason, but there's a good chance he'll stick around.

"He's been unbelievable on (special) teams."

 

RB Jalen 'Scoot' Simmons

 

When someone missed his flight for May's two-day tryout, the Panthers called Simmons, who was coaching a youth football camp. Now the Charlotte has a legit chance to make the practice squad.

"He's a really talented kid. He knows the offense. He is really smart."