The Carolina Panthers have their No. 1 cornerback on the field.

Bene Benwikere, who spent the offseason recovering from a broken leg, made his return to practice Wednesday after a short stint on the physically unable to perform list to start camp.

With Carolina's surprise decision to rescind Josh Norman's franchise tag, letting the All-Pro walk away as a free agent earlier, Benwikere has long been in position for a lead role in the defensive backfield.

His healthy return just days into training camp should give him every opportunity to get some significant preseason work and be at full strength for Week 1.

Benwikere appeared in 13 games as a sophomore last season before the injury forced him to injured reserve. Though the 24-year-old is only now entering his third season, he and Robert McClain will be the lone veterans among a young group of Panthers cornerbacks.

Also competing for roles heading into the fall are a trio of rookies in second-round pick James Bradberry, third-round pick Daryl Worley, and fifth-round pick Zack Sanchez.