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Two returning Panthers facing tough NFL training camp challenges

Two returning Panthers facing tough NFL training camp challenges originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

With Carolina Panthers coach Dave Canales issuing a reward by canceling Thursday's final NFL mandatory minicamp practice, the players started summer break early.

At least two returners from last season's squad may spend their vacation weeks on edge, realizing the challenges that could arise attempting to reclaim their spots on the 53-man roster.

As the Panthers capped the offseason training activities (OTAs) and directed their focus to an early training camp, here are the situations facing tight end James Mitchell and defensive lineman LaBryan Ray when they report July 22.

Tight end James Mitchell

Panthers general manager Dan Morgan ignored the position during the initial free-agent period and the NFL Draft last April, preferring the status quo. The top four depth chart includes Tommy Tremble, Ja'Tavion Sanders, Mitchell Evans and Mitchell.

The one addition Morgan made was a reunion with special teams ace Feleipe Franks. Sanders said Thursday that the tight end room remains close and anyone could break out.

"Honestly, anyone can have a breakout year," Sanders said. "Anytime anyone steps out on the field, there is no drop off."

Tremble and Sanders, who is coming off an injury-plagued campaign, enter training camp as TE1 and TE2. Evans, the TE3, is a strong blocker and optimistic playmaker.

Is there room for Mitchell?

Defensive lineman LaBryan Ray

A reserve through this four-year stay, Ray emerged as an injury-depleted regular late in the 2024 season, starting nine games and generating his lone NFL sack. When called upon, the former Alabama standout has compiled 73 career tackles (29 solo) in 46 career appearances.

With Tershawn Wharton sidelined with a neck injury, Ray, at 6-foot-4, 290 pounds, could slide over from defensive end to serve at nose tackle in the 3-4 base defense. But with Bobby Brown III, Cam Jackson and rookie Lee Hunter ahead of him on the depth chart and undrafted free agent Aaron Hall making an impression during rookie minicamp and OTAs, Ray likely will need a strong preseason to retain his reserve role.

At least there's the practice squad.