The first session of rookie mini-camp for the Panther newcomers was in less than ideal conditions as a steady downpour greeted the players and coaches.
The afternoon session was considerably improved as a host of players with Midlands connections were on the field representing the SEC East, the SEC West and the ACC Atlantic.
Spring Valley graduate Christian Miller is the most high profile of the Midlands players. A two-time national champion at Alabama, Miller was a fourth-round draft pick in last month's NFL Draft. He is expected to provide some speed on the edge for the Carolina defense.
Equalling Miller in terms of number of national championship rings is former Hammond Skyhawk Cannon Smith who was primarily a blocking tight end at Clemson. Smith is hoping to make the team via the undrafted free agent route.
Another Columbia native is former Ridge View Blazer Dennis Daley who just wrapped up his career at South Carolina. Daley was a sixth round draft pick by the Panthers who are quite high on the offensive lineman.
Ulric Jones is a former Gamecock who signed as an undrafted free agent with Seattle in 2018. The defensive tackle spent the last few months in Birmingham as part of the now-defunct AAF.
