Kelvin Benjamin practices for 1st time since tearing ACL

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin practiced Thursday for the first time since tearing his ACL in last year's training camp.

Benjamin participated in individual drills, but skipped 11-on-11 work. That's likely because the Panthers want to be extremely cautious in easing their 2014 first-round pick back into the mix.

The Panthers survived Benjamin's absence, advancing all the way to the Super Bowl, but there's no question they are a much better team with their best receiving threat on the field.