Comments from Carolina Panthers head coach John Fox following the team's training camp practice.
On if the Panthers have made a roster decision regarding defensive tackle Maake Kemoeatu: No. We pretty much found out medically what's wrong (torn right Achilles tendon). They are going to do surgery tomorrow, and we'll kind of wait and see.
On if the Panthers have brought any players in for workouts since the injury occurred: We had a bunch of workouts early on even before camp, so we've got emergency lists. Our guys are on top of it.
On his reaction when he heard that Kemoeatu had torn his Achilles tendon: Any time a good player gets hurt, any player gets hurt, you don't want to see it. You've got a feeling it's going to happen but you don't know who, where, when. But it is part of the game. A guy (Kemoeatu) that has been a big part of our defense and at a position that is a critical position, you are obviously disappointed. Like with any injuries, and we've had our share just like most teams, you move on.
On how not having Kemoeatu changes the defense if at all: I don't think it will change anything. Obviously, it will change who we do it with. It's not going to be a big change in our scheme and what we're doing.
On if the Panthers would consider holding a roster spot for Kemoeatu if he is able to return this season: We've tried that before. Just because you get out of camp doesn't mean injuries stop. They happen week-to-week and play-to-play. Sometimes you try it and you can't hold it. You get whacked at another position and you've got to go elsewhere. That's why you try to keep all the avenues open, and at this point that's kind of where we are.
On if the Panthers would sign a veteran or young defensive tackle if they do make a roster move: The best available player within our parameters. Again, that doesn't mean it will end with the first movement. Like I said the other day when asked about a particular player, we're always looking to improve our team and we'll do that not just during camp but the whole season.
On defensive coordinator Ron Meeks' transition to the Panthers: I think very well. Ron has been in the league for 19 years and served as a defensive coordinator most recently with Indy. He brings a new approach. It's a new voice, a new face, and I think the guys have responded very, very well.
On if running back Jonathan Stewart will be on a maintenance program throughout camp because of his condition: We'll do whatever is necessary medically. We don't want to wear him out and yet we still want to get him his reps and get him football ready. At this point right now, we're going one-a-day with him and we'll see how it goes.
On if the Panthers have any rules about players Twittering: We've made our guys real aware whatever that put on there is going to be fair game. They're aware of it. The league's got (rules) in place - no social communication (networking) is going to be allowed on game days. As far as our team, we haven't told guys they can't do it but just be aware that's out there.
On how often he Twitters: It depends on what you define as twittering.
On how the team responded to practicing in the afternoon heat: I think very well. Our coaches are working very hard. Our have had a high expectation level, and I think our players have responded well.
