‘Typical Rookie’

Kelvin Benjamin dropped jaws at rookie minicamp two years ago. But it’s a lot easier for a receiver to make a big impression in those practices than, say, a defensive tackle.

Because contact is limited, first-round pick Vernon Butler wasn’t able to fully flash his power and athletic ability. The two days were more about hammering home fundamentals and chipping away at bad habits.

When asked what kind of player Butler is right now, defensive line coach Eric Washington smiled and said: “Typical rookie.”

“They all come in with different backgrounds, and they just have to learn and acclimate themselves to being a Carolina Panthers’ defensive lineman. It’s pretty typical, but we anticipate that he’ll adapt quickly and we’ll see progress every day.”