Adam Thielen played all of about 30 seconds, Xavier Legette got himself ejected in the first quarter and after an initial explosive 29-yard catch Tetairoa McMillan dropped two passes and earned a "loser" label from some analysts.

The Panthers and Texans battled in a competitive joint practice Thursday. The Observer was in Houston to track news, notes and highlights.

But their next few series on Thursday were lackluster. The Panthers' defense ramped up the intensity. Carolina cornerback Mike Jackson intercepted Stroud on a goal-line play where Stroud appeared to slightly overthrow his intended target. It was a miraculous catch by Jackson, who might have taken it back for a touchdown.