CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers took a short break from training camp in Spartanburg for Fan Fest at Bank of America Stadium Wednesday night, giving many fans their first opportunity to see top draft pick Bryce Young in action.
Thousands of fans packed into the Bank to watch the team in action. Many people told WCNC Charlotte they were excited to see Young lead a team. There's been a lot of discussion wondering if he can lead a team due to his age, but others were already predicting a successful playoff run.
Tickets to Fan Fest were just $5 and proceeds benefit Carolina Panthers Charities. Tickets for Fan Fest were able for purchase online. In addition to sending that money to charity, the Panthers asked all fans in attendance to bring school supplies to help support Charlotte-area teachers and students. Needed supplies include pencils, crayons, markers and glue sticks.
Gates opened at 5:30 p.m. with practice beginning at 7 p.m. Panthers Fan Fest also included performances by Sir Purr, the TopCats, PurrCussion and the Black & Blue Crew. The night ended with a spectacular fireworks and laser show with interactive LED wristbands given to fans when they entered the stadium.
As for practice, this was a great opportunity for Carolina fans to get their eyes on No. 1 draft pick Bryce Young. The 2021 Heisman winner has shown tremendous progress throughout camp to this point with head coach Frank Reich saying Young's done all the right things to establish a rapport with his teammates and coaches. He's also garnered praise from several veterans, including wide receiver D.J. Chark and tight end Hayden Hurst.
It's been a busy offseason for the Panthers. The team hired Reich as its next head coach and then made a huge trade with the Chicago Bears to acquire the No. 1 pick in the draft. They've also added several key veterans, like wide receiver Adam Thielen and safety Vonn Bell.
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