It hasn't been perfect, but there have been improvements. 

Dave Canales couldn't help but be proud of how far the Carolina Panthers have come since offseason workouts started. And as the Panthers head off for summer break, he sees where the team has improved on offense and defense. 

"I think about the spring and just where we started from an operational standpoint," Canales reflected, "for us to be able to get into a full-speed two-minute drill; we had an end-of-half and then we had an end-of-game situation right there, getting the calls in and out, playing within the time clock. Love to see the execution a little bit better. We had a couple of drops, but the ball moved.

"The defense had some great stops within those periods as well. It was just good reps for Ejiro [Evero] and I just to use our time outs, and take a look at the situation where we had on the field. But I think it's just celebrating the players and the way that they've locked in and focused this spring, and have taken to the teaching, the principles of what we're looking for."

For the Panthers, offseason workouts were a point where a new roster could get some much-needed on-field time. 

It is a massive season for Bryce Young, who must rebound from a dismal 2023 season. 

The wide receiver group has been reshaped in a healthy, more dynamic image with the additions of Diontae Johnson and Xavier Legette. At least some parts of the offseason both headline additions got some time on the field. 

The defense also received some much-needed love.

All in all, Canales feels like the Panthers are trending up heading into the doldrums of summer. That is a welcome sign for everyone involved. 

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