Carolina’s first training camp practice was supposed to be all about momentum. Instead it ended with the entire squad down on one knee witnessing a young defensive star being taken off in tears.
#Panthers LB Nic Scourton, one of their top up-and-coming players who left practice after a right knee injury, will have an MRI this afternoon to determine the severity. Coach Dave Canales would not speculate on how serious it is. pic.twitter.com/S4vSAmsOv7
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 23, 2026
The first day of camp in Charlotte was cut short on Thursday for second-year outside linebacker Nic Scourton, who injured his right knee during team drills on a damp field.
Scourton went down late in the workout and was quickly swarmed by players who got down on their knees while trainers cared to his leg.
He covered his face with his hand as he was assisted onto a cart.
That moment halted the practice. The cart then left the field, stopping at the gate for head coach Dave Canales and every player on the squad to stroll over and show their support before Scourton was brought to the training center.
According to ESPN, Canales later stated he didn’t know how bad the injury was and wouldn’t comment, but added Scourton would have an MRI to determine the damage.
Bryce Young, the quarterback who was near the play, said he did not see it, but he praised Scourton for his effect on the team. “He’s a high-motor competitor,” Young said, “and he’s become a leader on defense.”
Scourton was Carolina’s top rookie producer last season, appearing in 17 games with eight starts and tied Derrick Brown for the team lead with five sacks and adding 47 tackles and nine quarterback hits.
He was projected to be a big part of the Panthers’ edge rush again this year.
For now the team waits for test results and hopes the emotional scene at Thursday’s practice doesn’t turn into more bad news.
