SPARTANBURG, S.C. (AP) – Tight Greg Olsen says the Panthers need to approach training camp with a sense of urgency after the team’s sluggish starts the past two seasons.

Steve Smith couldn’t agree more.

The five-time Pro Bowl wide receiver says “a sense of urgency is an understatement.”

Carolina started 1-6 last season and 1-5 in 2011. While the Panthers finished both seasons strong they weren’t able to dig themselves out of that early hole and make the playoffs.

Smith says “slow starts will get you fired, cut and bring change real quick for everyone.”

The Panthers arrived at Wofford College for training camp Thursday.

The Panthers will be without running back Jonathan Stewart and linebacker Jon Beason when they begin practice Friday night. Both starters say they’re still recovering from offseason surgery.