Can you talk about the development of Graham Barton so far?
Graham Barton has shown a lot of promise in his development so far. Coming into the PML, we knew he had the physical tools and technical ability to make an impact, but seeing him adjust to the speed and complexity of the game at this level has been impressive. He’s been a quick learner, picking up on the nuances of our blocking schemes and showing great versatility along the offensive line. Whether we’ve asked him to hold down the edge or handle interior rushers, he’s been up to the task.
What really stands out about Graham is his football IQ. He’s always studying film, working on his technique, and asking the right questions. He’s not the type of player who’s just relying on his natural talent—he puts in the work to get better every week. His awareness in pass protection has improved steadily, and he’s developing into a reliable presence for us in both the run and pass game.
Like any young player, there are still areas for growth, but his progression has been encouraging. His footwork and hand placement continue to improve, and he’s starting to gain confidence in his ability to handle some of the league’s top defenders. We’re excited about what he brings to our offensive line now, and even more about what his future holds as he continues to develop into a cornerstone for our unit.
Did you scout Brock Bowers before the draft? If so, what stood out about him?
Yes, we definitely scouted Brock Bowers before the draft, and he was a player that stood out right away. What immediately jumped off the tape was his athleticism—he’s a rare breed at the tight end position with his ability to move like a wide receiver while possessing the size and physicality of a traditional tight end. His versatility was a major point of emphasis during our scouting process. Bowers is the kind of player who can line up anywhere on the field—inline, in the slot, or even out wide—and create matchup nightmares for defenses.
His ball skills were another standout trait. Whether it’s high-pointing the ball in contested catch situations or making plays after the catch, he has the natural ability to be a game-changer in the passing game. What really impressed us, though, was his competitiveness. He’s not just a finesse player; he’s willing to do the dirty work in the trenches. His run-blocking ability is something that gets overlooked at times because of his receiving skills, but Bowers is a complete player. He has the mentality to mix it up with defensive linemen and linebackers, and that’s rare for a tight end with his athletic profile.
Overall, we saw Brock as a special talent who could be a cornerstone for any offense. He’s the kind of guy you can build around because he brings so much to the table, both as a receiver and as a blocker. We knew he'd be highly coveted in the draft, and it’s clear he’s already making a significant impact in the PML.
How effective was your game plan against the strategies of the Panthers?
Our game plan against the Panthers was executed exceptionally well, and it was great to see our players respond to it. We focused on leveraging our play-action game, which proved to be highly effective, particularly with Mike Evans. His two big catches for touchdowns, along with over 130 yards, were pivotal in establishing our offensive rhythm and keeping the Panthers' defense on their heels. We knew they’d be aggressive in trying to stop the run, and using play-action allowed us to take advantage of that aggressiveness.
Jordan Travis did an outstanding job filling in for Baker Mayfield. He was calm and composed in the pocket, showing great poise and decision-making throughout the game. His turnover-free day was crucial, as it allowed us to maintain possession and control the tempo. We emphasized the importance of taking care of the football, and Jordan delivered on that front.
Defensively, we were superb. Our unit was well-prepared and executed the game plan flawlessly, consistently putting pressure on their quarterback and limiting their offensive options. The players played disciplined football, making smart tackles and forcing them into difficult situations. Overall, our strategy was sound, and it was rewarding to see our hard work pay off on the field. The entire team stepped up, and it was a solid performance that we can build on as we move forward in the season.
