The Carolina Panthers already have one preseason win in the books. The team took down the Arizona Cardinals in an exciting Hall of Fame Game on Thursday night to get started on a positive note.
There were some nice (and not so nice) performances, and we have a little more clarity about the roster than we did. It's way too early to make definitive statements, but it really seems like this rookie class is going to be very impactful for the Panthers.
Not only have most of the draft picks looked good but so have a few undrafted free agents. Today, let's talk about the four rookies who have been the most surprising (in a good way) since training camp started.
QB Haynes King
Haynes King was brought in as an undrafted free agent, and at the time, it didn't seem like he would have much a chance to stick. The Panthers had Bryce Young, Kenny Pickett, and Will Grier ahead of him, and Dave Canales usually only keeps two passers.
Well, Grier retired, and Pickett has had an up-and-down camp. This has made people pay more attention to King, and he made the most of his opportunities on Thursday night. King threw for 180 yards and two touchdowns and also rushed for the game-winning score.
It's definitely surprising how solid King has looked as a UDFA.
OL Monroe Freeling
Monroe Freeling was a first-round pick, so it's not surprising that he seems to be a good player. It is, however, surprising that Freeling has fit in so seamlessly at right tackle. When Freeling was drafted, the thought was that he'd be the swing tackle as a rookie.
Instead, Freeling has to start due to injuries to both starting tackles. So far, the results have been promising. Freeling didn't play in the preseason opener, but he's holding his own in practice against the Panthers' tough defensive line. Freeling's technique and handwork are even better than many expected.
DL Aaron Hall
Aaron Hall couldn't have possibly landed in a better spot after going undrafted. The defensive lineman is getting a perfect opportunity with the Panthers due to injuries and a retirement.
Hall has also impressed regardless. He's super athletic for a big guy and his relentless motor has earned praise. It was a bit disappointing he wasn't able to make an impact in the Hall of Fame Game, but he'll have more chances.
Hall is probably already close to being a roster lock. That's a surprise considering nobody gave him much thought when he was signed.
CB Will Lee III
Will Lee III has been one of the most impressive defensive backs on the roster this summer. The rookie has been flying around at practice, and he really has a nose for the ball. Lee has been so good at camp that the Panthers have experimented with moving Jaycee Horn to the slot.
Like Hall, Lee didn't have the best performance on Thursday night, but the good has outweighed the bad overall. Lee has been better than anyone expected as a fifth-round rookie.
