Matt Corral might’ve been a favorite of Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo’s coming out of the 2022 NFL draft. But that doesn’t mean he’ll get any special treatment this summer.
Prior to their latest set of organized team activities On Wednesday, McAdoo hit the podium for a little question-and-answer session with the media. When asked what he’s looking for out of Corral at this point, the 44-year-old play caller said it’ll be a process for the rookie to get the level they’ll need him to be at.
“It’s really early now to even say what he needs to do,” McAdoo said. “We need to get to training camp first. Then, obviously, preseason will play a part of it. But it’s not gonna be easy for him. It’s gonna be a challenge. And I’m not here to make it easy for him. I’m here to make it hard on him. So when he does have a chance to play and get in the games, he’s ready to go.”
As a late third-round selection, the Ole Miss star shouldn’t be expected to take the starting job by the reins–at least this early. He, of course, will have to surpass the incumbent and current favorite for the spot in fifth-year veteran Sam Darnold.
But given what’ll likely be a short leash for Darnold in 2022, Corral’s chance to make a first impression can come sooner rather than later.
