Carolina Panthers

Evans is dealing with a triceps injury, and he was unable to practice at all this week ahead of being ruled out for Thursday night's contest versus Green Bay. The 27-year-old will now be forced to miss at least four games while on IR, and in his absence, Will Lee, Malcolm DeWalt and Chau Smith-Wade will stand to operate as the team's primary options at cornerback.

Horn has had a productive NFL career, amassing 196 total tackles (139 solo), including 2.0 sacks, and 10 interceptions across 56 regular-season games over six seasons. He underwent surgery on his quad back in September. However, until Horn is back on the field or there is a more informative update, he should be considered week-to-week.

Jackson was placed on injured reserve late in September after suffering a groin injury in Week 3 against Cleveland. The 29-year-old's potential return would greatly help a depleted Carolina secondary, which lost both Jackson and Jaycee Horn (quadriceps) early in the season. Jackson has five tackles (three solo) in his two full regular-season games.

Jackson will miss the remainder of the campaign after undergoing shoulder surgery. He was also nursing a knee injury and will now shift his focus to getting healthy for the 2027 campaign.

Christensen has been on injured reserve since Sept. 1. He was designated to return Tuesday and was a full participant in all three of Carolina's practices this week, but the Panthers aren't ready to activate him. Christensen's next chance to play is Sunday, Nov. 15, in New Orleans.

Per Gantt, Martin-Scott was a full practice participant Wednesday in his first session since suffering a hamstring injury in late August. He would need to be activated from IR in order to make his 2026 regular-season debut against the Buccaneers on Sunday. Martin-Scott's return would give the Panthers another contributor on special teams and add depth to the inside linebacker position.

Cherelus has not practiced since sustaining a shoulder injury in the Panthers' Week 2 win over the Falcons. The linebacker will now need to miss at least four games before he can return to the team's active roster from injured reserve. Tyrel Dodson will likely take Cherelus' place as a special-teamer and reserve linebacker for the Panthers' defense.

Incoom's calf injury is severe enough for him to warrant a stint on injured reserve. As such, the Central Michigan product will be required to miss at least four games, so the next time he can suit up is Week 11 against the Ravens on Sunday, Nov. 22. Bam Martin-Scott was activated from IR in a corresponding move.

Moton fractured his fibula in the Panthers' 43-13 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. The offensive tackle will likely miss the rest of the 2026 season due to the injury, making the move to injured reserve a formality. Monroe Freeling is set to start at right tackle for the Panthers for the remainder of the season.

Brooks hasn't played since Week 2 due to a groin injury that required core-muscle surgery and a stint on injured reserve. The Panthers designated him for return from IR on Wednesday, and he kicked off Week 10 prep with an uncapped walkthrough. How Brooks is listed on the injury report when Carolina holds practice Thursday and/or Friday may be the determining factor in his chances to play Sunday at New Orleans.

Brazzell will officially miss his entire rookie season due to the LCL tear he suffered during Wednesday's training camp practice. The rookie third-round pick will undergo surgery and set his full attention on making a recovery for the 2027 campaign. In the wake of this transaction, Xavier Legette and John Metchie are the top candidates to secure the No. 3 wide receiver role in Carolina behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker.

Just as head coach Dave Canales indicated earlier in the week would be the case, Legette will make his return to the practice field for the first time since Sept. 25. Legette, who has been sidelined for the Panthers' last six games while recovering from the knee injury, has a shot at being activated for Sunday's game against the Saints, though Carolina will have a full 21-day window to evaluate him for a return from IR. Once he's reinstated, Legette is likely to serve as the Panthers' No. 3 receiver behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker.

inactive

Lee missed last Sunday's loss to the Broncos after he was injured 10 days prior in the Week 8 loss to the Packers. Marco Wilson and Corey Thornton handled most of the cornerback snaps in Week 9 against Denver, but Lee appears ready to return to action.

inactive

inactive

Phillips has missed the last three games for Carolina, but he appears to be ready to return to the field Sunday versus New Orleans. Across five games this season, Phillips has produced 10 tackles (three solo), including 2.5 sacks.

inactive

Ekwonu was placed on the Panthers' reserve/PUP list prior to the start of the regular season, as he was still recovering from the ruptured patellar tendon he suffered during the Panthers' wild-card loss against the Rams last postseason, and there's no indication at this point that he's nearing a return. With rookie first-rounder Monroe Freeling now dealing with a knee issue, Stone Forsythe could be called upon to start at right tackle for the Panthers in Week 6 after their bye in Week 5.

inactive

King should be used to this role, as it's one he's had in each of Carolina's contests so far this season. It has yet to yield a regular-season snap for the rookie out of Georgia Tech, and King will be eligible to enter Sunday's matchup only if both Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett exit due to injury, illness or ejection.

It's the third straight week that Dillon is a healthy scratch, and he hasn't logged game-day action since Week 4 against Detroit. Meanwhile, rookie RB Anthony Tyus continues to be active, due largely to his work as a kick returner. As such, it appears Dillon isn't likely to suit up unless one of the RBs ahead of him in the pecking order -- Chuba Hubbard, Trevor Etienne or Tyus -- needs to miss time.

inactive

Sanders will be a healthy scratch for the sixth game in a row to open the regular season. Tommy Tremble and Darren Waller will operate as the team's primary options at tight end versus the Packers.

Bullock was able to log a full practice one day after being considered a limited participant on the team's estimated injury report due to the quadriceps injury he suffered in Week 8 against Green Bay. With Damien Lewis (knee) unable to practice Thursday, Bullock could draw a second straight start at offensive guard versus Denver on Sunday.

questionable

questionable

Wharton had his 21-day practice window opened Tuesday and remains listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Eagles. The 28-year-old has appeared in just nine of a possible 21 regular-season games since the beginning of last season. He logged 36 tackles (11 solo), including 2.0 sacks, and a pass breakup across nine appearances last regular season.

questionable

questionable

questionable

Jones didn't suit up for the Week 1 loss to the Bears. Although he practiced in a limited capacity throughout the week, he's in danger of missing another contest Sunday. If Jones can't get on the field against Atlanta, Princely Umanmielen and Trevis Gipson would be in line for more snaps.

questionable

Hubbard's level of participation in practice will be monitored, but he's on the field with his helmet as the session gets underway. The veteran has been hampered by a hamstring injury sustained in mid-August, but has been progressing well. His participation on Tuesday is a good sign that he's trending in the right direction toward being ready for the start of the season.

Etienne remains listed as questionable for Sunday's date with the Eagles, but he appears to be positioned to make his 2026 debut after missing the first four games of the season ahead of Carolina's Week 5 bye. With AJ Dillon (ankle) ruled out and Jonathon Brooks (abdomen) on injured reserve, Etienne would provide needed backfield depth behind Chuba Hubbard.

Waller has registered back-to-back limited practice sessions coming out of Carolina's Week 5 bye. The veteran TE could avoid an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Eagles but ramping up his participation level to full Friday. Tommy Tremble (ribs) has also opened Week 6 prep with consecutive limited practices, but both Waller and Tremble seem likely to suit up Sunday, as neither has missed a game this season.

Tremble played a reduced role at tight end in Week 4 versus Detroit before the Panthers' bye in Week 5, and it seems plausible that whatever rib injury he's dealing with now could also have been the reason for that. In any case, he'll probably have to practice in full Thursday or Friday to avoid carrying an injury designation into the weekend.

Coker previously dealt with ankle and quadriceps issues this season, so this is a new health concern for the third-year pro. While he dropped from 13 targets in a Week 6 win at Philadelphia to just four targets Sunday against the Buccaneers, he still ranked second in snap share (66 percent) among Carolina wide receivers behind Tetairoa McMillan (68 percent). Considering Coker logged a capped walkthrough Monday, he likely is on pace to play Thursday in Green Bay, but Wednesday's injury report will determine if he as a designation for that contest.

questionable

Phillips has missed the last three games for Carolina, but he appears to be ready to return to the field Sunday versus New Orleans. Across five games this season, Phillips has produced 10 tackles (three solo), including 2.5 sacks.

Brooks hasn't played since Week 2 due to a groin injury that required core-muscle surgery and a stint on injured reserve. The Panthers designated him for return from IR on Wednesday, and he kicked off Week 10 prep with an uncapped walkthrough. How Brooks is listed on the injury report when Carolina holds practice Thursday and/or Friday may be the determining factor in his chances to play Sunday at New Orleans.

Jackson was placed on injured reserve late in September after suffering a groin injury in Week 3 against Cleveland. The 29-year-old's potential return would greatly help a depleted Carolina secondary, which lost both Jackson and Jaycee Horn (quadriceps) early in the season. Jackson has five tackles (three solo) in his two full regular-season games.

Lee missed last Sunday's loss to the Broncos after he was injured 10 days prior in the Week 8 loss to the Packers. Marco Wilson and Corey Thornton handled most of the cornerback snaps in Week 9 against Denver, but Lee appears ready to return to action.

Just as head coach Dave Canales indicated earlier in the week would be the case, Legette will make his return to the practice field for the first time since Sept. 25. Legette, who has been sidelined for the Panthers' last six games while recovering from the knee injury, has a shot at being activated for Sunday's game against the Saints, though Carolina will have a full 21-day window to evaluate him for a return from IR. Once he's reinstated, Legette is likely to serve as the Panthers' No. 3 receiver behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker.

questionable

questionable

questionable

questionable

out

out

out

Horn has had a productive NFL career, amassing 196 total tackles (139 solo), including 2.0 sacks, and 10 interceptions across 56 regular-season games over six seasons. He underwent surgery on his quad back in September. However, until Horn is back on the field or there is a more informative update, he should be considered week-to-week.

Brooks, who remains on IR, was seen working off to the side during the Panthers' unofficial practice last Tuesday, per Joe Person of The Athletic, perhaps signaling some progress for the oft-injured RB, who last saw game action in Week 2. In Brooks' absence, Chuba Hubbard has dominated Carolina's backfield touches.

Jackson underwent core-muscle surgery in September and has been on injured reserve to this point in the season. While he was expected to be evaluated after eight weeks, there haven't been any real updates regarding his return to the field. The 2019 No. 158 overall pick has appeared in 74 regular-season games during his career, accruing 262 total tackles (209 solo), one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and one touchdown.

out

Carolina will likely wait until it holds its first Week 10 practice Wednesday before officially opening Legette's 21-day evaluation window. The third-year receiver hasn't played since Sept. 20 due to the knee injury, so he may need to turn in multiple full practices this week to put himself in a position to return from IR ahead of this Sunday's game against the Saints.

It's the third straight week that Dillon is a healthy scratch, and he hasn't logged game-day action since Week 4 against Detroit. Meanwhile, rookie RB Anthony Tyus continues to be active, due largely to his work as a kick returner. As such, it appears Dillon isn't likely to suit up unless one of the RBs ahead of him in the pecking order -- Chuba Hubbard, Trevor Etienne or Tyus -- needs to miss time.

inactive

inactive

King should be used to this role, as it's one he's had in each of Carolina's contests so far this season. It has yet to yield a regular-season snap for the rookie out of Georgia Tech, and King will be eligible to enter Sunday's matchup only if both Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett exit due to injury, illness or ejection.

inactive

inactive

inactive

Christensen has been on injured reserve since Sept. 1. He was designated to return Tuesday and was a full participant in all three of Carolina's practices this week, but the Panthers aren't ready to activate him. Christensen's next chance to play is Sunday, Nov. 15, in New Orleans.

Okereke is dealing with a foot injury that caused him to sit out practice all week. As a result, he's going to miss his first game since the 2024 campaign. Tyrel Dodson figures to get a start at linebacker in Okereke's stead.

Christensen has been on IR all season as he's continued to work his way back from a hamstring injury. His practice window was opened Wednesday, and the veteran offensive lineman logged three full practices this week. The Panthers will need to activate Christensen from IR on Saturday in order for him to be eligible to make his 2026 debut Sunday.

Lewis will miss his second consecutive game due to a knee injury. He didn't practice at all this week, and it's unclear how long he's going to be sidelined. Fellow offensive guards Corey Bullock (quadriceps) and Torricelli Simpkins (ankle) are both questionable for Sunday, though they were both able to log full practice sessions Thursday and Friday.

Phillips continues to deal with a hamstring injury he suffered in Week 6 against the Eagles. He didn't practice at all this week, so it doesn't seem that he was particularly close to suiting up. With Phillips set to miss his third consecutive contest, Princely Umanmielen could again be asked to step up as a pass rusher.

questionable

Lee hurt his hamstring last Thursday against Green Bay and was unable to participate in practice at all this week. As such, it's not surprising that he won't suit up Sunday. Marco Wilson may be elevated from the Panthers' practice squad to start again versus the Broncos.

It was a second consecutive DNP for Okereke, who has yet to miss a game this season. The 30-year-old has one more opportunity to practice ahead of Sunday's game versus Denver or he could carry an injury designation. Okereke has 49 total tackles (31 solo), 1.0 sacks and one interception in his seven appearances during the 2026 campaign.

Christensen made his return to practice Thursday after being listed as a full participant on Carolina's estimated practice report Wednesday. The offensive lineman has been on injured reserve since suffering a hamstring injury during the preseason, but he appears to be on the cusp of returning to action.

Bullock was able to log a full practice one day after being considered a limited participant on the team's estimated injury report due to the quadriceps injury he suffered in Week 8 against Green Bay. With Damien Lewis (knee) unable to practice Thursday, Bullock could draw a second straight start at offensive guard versus Denver on Sunday.

Lewis was estimated to be a non-participant Wednesday, and he has now missed the team's first official practice of the week. The offensive lineman was unable to play in Week 8 against the Packers as a result of a knee injury he suffered the week prior, and he appears to be trending towards another absence Sunday versus the Broncos.

Lee sustained a hamstring injury during the loss to the Packers in Week 8. Now, he's in danger of missing his first game of the 2026 campaign, which wouldn't be an ideal scenario for a Carolina team that is already thin at the cornerback position. If Lee is ruled out against the Broncos, the Panthers may need to look to the practice squad to fill the void.

doubtful

questionable

Christensen has been rehabbing from a hamstring injury all season and has yet to play in a game. The Panthers will now have 21 days to activate him from IR, otherwise he won't be eligible to suit up this season. If Christensen does indeed return, he could be moved into a starting role.

questionable

The Panthers haven't yet opened Brooks' 21-day practice window, but that might happen soon after head coach Dave Canales said Monday that the young running back would "potentially" be designated for return from injured reserve this week. Brooks hasn't played since Week 2 after undergoing core-muscle surgery, so he'll likely need to turn in multiple full practices before the Panthers are comfortable clearing him for game action. Once he's activated from IR, Brooks will likely handle a supporting role out of the backfield behind starter Chubba Hubbard.

questionable

Phillips hasn't practiced since aggravating a hamstring injury in the Panthers' Week 6 win over the Eagles. With the benefit of a mini-bye coming off a Thursday night loss to the Packers in Week 8, Phillips may have a chance at putting an end to a two-game absence. The Panthers will see what, if anything, Phillips is able to do in practice this week before deciding on his status for the matchup with the Broncos.

Canales noted that Brooks still has some checkpoints he needs to hit in his recovery process before getting the green light to practice, but the running back looks to have at least made progress on some level since undergoing core-muscle surgery Sept. 23. The running back has already spent more than four games on IR and will be eligible to be added back to the 53-man roster whenever the Panthers deem him healthy. Once activated, Brooks will likely have to settle for a change-of-pace role behind lead back Chubba Hubbard.

Lee suffered the hamstring injury during Carolina's loss to Green Bay on Thursday night. The fourth-round pick has played a starting role for the Panthers in the wake of injuries to cornerbacks Jaycee Horn (quadriceps), Mike Jackson (groin) and Akayleb Evans (triceps).

Canales noted that Legette still has some checkpoints he needs to hit in his recovery process before getting the green light to practice, but the third-year wideout appears to have at least progressed on some level since landing on IR on Oct. 3. Before getting hurt, Legette had served as the Panthers' No. 3 wideout during the first two weeks of the season and produced a 2-64-0 receiving line on six targets between those contests.

Bullock started in place of Damien Lewis (knee), who was ruled out after being injured in the Week 7 meeting with Tampa Bay. The loss of Lewis was already a tough blow for the Panthers' offensive line, but things got even worse after Bullock exited the contest due to a quad contusion. It's unknown if Bullock or Lewis will be available when Carolina meets the Broncos in Week 9. However, if neither of them can suit up, Jake Curhan, who was elevated from the practice squad Thursday and replaced Bullock during the game, may need to step up once again.

Dillon will be a healthy scratch for the second straight week as the Panthers go with Chuba Hubbard, Trevor Etienne and Anthony Tyus as their three options in the backfield. Dillon appears to have found himself far down the pecking order, and he is unlikely to be a major part of Carolina's future plans.

Evans is dealing with a triceps injury, and he was unable to practice at all this week ahead of being ruled out for Thursday night's contest versus Green Bay. The 27-year-old will now be forced to miss at least four games while on IR, and in his absence, Will Lee, Malcolm DeWalt and Chau Smith-Wade will stand to operate as the team's primary options at cornerback.

Brown will be forced to miss Week 8 as he nurses an apparent hand injury. In his absence, Aaron Hall and TeRah Edwards are both candidates to see an increase in workload on Carolina's defensive line.

King will once again serve as the team's emergency QB for the seventh game in a row. The rookie would only be eligible to enter the game if both starter Bryce Young and primary backup Kenny Pickett are forced out of the contest.

Sanders will be a healthy scratch for the sixth game in a row to open the regular season. Tommy Tremble and Darren Waller will operate as the team's primary options at tight end versus the Packers.

Lee was hurt in the first half and was deemed doubtful to return shortly before halftime. In the likely event that Lee can't re-enter the contest, Marco Wilson and Malcolm DeWalt will likely handled much of the cornerback snaps for Carolina.

Evans logged three consecutive DNPs in Week 8 prep. The cornerback was unable to overcome his new injury during the Panthers' short week, leaving him sidelined for Thursday's contest. Will Lee and Chau Smith-Wade are now the only cornerbacks on the Panthers' active roster, meaning multiple defensive backs will likely be elevated to the active roster for Thursday's game.

questionable

Lewis likely picked up the injury during Sunday's 43-13 loss to the Buccaneers. He was unable to practice all week due to his injury, and with Torricelli Simpkins (ankle) also ruled out, Corey Bullock figures to step into the starting role at left guard. Lewis' next chance to play is Week 9 against the Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 8.

Phillips did not practice at all during the Panthers' Week 8 prep. The linebacker aggravated a hamstring injury in the team's Week 6 win over the Eagles and continues to pay the price. It is unclear whether Phillips is tracking to return to practice ahead of Week 9 or will need to miss even more time due to the injury.

Simpkins was unable to practice all week due to an ankle injury, which he likely picked up during Sunday's 43-13 loss to the Buccaneers. With Damien Lewis (knee) also ruled out, Corey Bullock will likely start at left guard in Thursday night's game. Simpkins' next chance to suit up is Week 9 against the Broncos on Sunday, Nov. 8.

With Jaycee Horn (quadriceps) and Mike Jackson (groin) both on injured reserve, Evans started in Sunday's loss to the Buccaneers, finishing with two total tackles (two solo). The 27-year-old will have a few more days to get healthy ahead of Thursday's game against Green Bay, but if he can't suit up, Chau Smith-Wade and Robert Rochell could be in line for more snaps.

questionable

questionable

Phillips aggravated a hamstring injury in the Week 6 victory over Philadelphia and was subsequently ruled out for Sunday's loss to Tampa Bay. If Phillips can't suit up for a second consecutive game Thursday against the Packers, Princely Umanmielen should continue to receive more snaps.

Coker previously dealt with ankle and quadriceps issues this season, so this is a new health concern for the third-year pro. While he dropped from 13 targets in a Week 6 win at Philadelphia to just four targets Sunday against the Buccaneers, he still ranked second in snap share (66 percent) among Carolina wide receivers behind Tetairoa McMillan (68 percent). Considering Coker logged a capped walkthrough Monday, he likely is on pace to play Thursday in Green Bay, but Wednesday's injury report will determine if he as a designation for that contest.

Moton fractured his fibula in the Panthers' 43-13 loss to the Buccaneers on Sunday. The offensive tackle will likely miss the rest of the 2026 season due to the injury, making the move to injured reserve a formality. Monroe Freeling is set to start at right tackle for the Panthers for the remainder of the season.

questionable

After an ankle injury kept Dillon from playing in a Week 6 win over the Eagles, he was a full participant in practices Wednesday through Friday and avoided an injury designation for Sunday's contest. Dillon will wind up on the inactive list for a second straight game, however, with Carolina moving forward with Trevor Etienne and Anthony Tyus as its backup options behind lead back Chuba Hubbard. Both Etienne and Tyus offer more utility on special teams than Dillon, who hadn't been offering much of an impact on offense with 17 carries for 43 yards (2.5 average) and two catches for three yards over his four appearances on the season.

King has been the Panthers' emergency QB3 behind Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett all season, and that trend will continue Sunday. As such, King is prohibited from seeing the field unless both Young and Pickett exit the game due to injury, illness or ejection.

inactive

inactive

inactive

inactive

doubtful

inactive

Incoom's calf injury is severe enough for him to warrant a stint on injured reserve. As such, the Central Michigan product will be required to miss at least four games, so the next time he can suit up is Week 11 against the Ravens on Sunday, Nov. 22. Bam Martin-Scott was activated from IR in a corresponding move.

Phillips aggravated a hamstring injury during the Panthers' Week 6 win over the Eagles. The injury prevented him from practicing during Week 7 prep, and his absence means Princely Umanmielen will likely start opposite Patrick Jones at the edge rusher position. Phillips' next chance to play is Thursday against the Packers at Lambeau Field.

questionable

Incoom was unable to practice all week due to a calf injury that he picked up against the Eagles in Week 6, and his next chance to play is Thursday against the Packers. The Panthers will have less edge depth Sunday because of the absences of both Incoom and Jaelan Phillips (hamstring).

Phillips was once again absent from Thursday's practice, putting his availability for Sunday's matchup against Tampa Bay in doubt. The 27-year-old is healing from a hamstring injury sustained in Week 6 versus Philly. Should Phillips miss Week 7, Princely Umanmielen could draw a start.

Per Gantt, Martin-Scott was a full practice participant Wednesday in his first session since suffering a hamstring injury in late August. He would need to be activated from IR in order to make his 2026 regular-season debut against the Buccaneers on Sunday. Martin-Scott's return would give the Panthers another contributor on special teams and add depth to the inside linebacker position.

questionable

questionable

questionable

out

inactive

inactive

As the emergency third quarterback, King is not allowed to play Sunday unless both Bryce Young and Kenny Pickett leave the game due to injury, illness or ejection. King has yet to appear in a regular-season game in 2026.

Sanders, a fourth-round selection of the Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft, has been a healthy scratch in every single regular-season game so far in 2026. His next chance to play is Week 7 against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Oct. 25, but it's hard to see Sanders suiting up for that contest unless a Panthers tight end is unavailable.

Freeling drew the doubtful tag for Week 6 due to a knee injury he sustained against the Lions in Week 4. He won't be available for Sunday's game, but Taylor Moton (illness) has been cleared to play and will serve as the Panthers' starting right tackle. Moton's next opportunity to play is Week 7 against the Buccaneers on Sunday, Oct. 25.

inactive

Incoom sustained a calf injury quickly after taking over for Jaelan Phillips (hamstring) during Sunday's game. The reserve linebacker will not return to the contest, but Phillips already has resumed his role as the primary weakside linebacker.

inactive

Wharton had his 21-day practice window opened Tuesday and remains listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Eagles. The 28-year-old has appeared in just nine of a possible 21 regular-season games since the beginning of last season. He logged 36 tackles (11 solo), including 2.0 sacks, and a pass breakup across nine appearances last regular season.

Etienne remains listed as questionable for Sunday's date with the Eagles, but he appears to be positioned to make his 2026 debut after missing the first four games of the season ahead of Carolina's Week 5 bye. With AJ Dillon (ankle) ruled out and Jonathon Brooks (abdomen) on injured reserve, Etienne would provide needed backfield depth behind Chuba Hubbard.

Meanwhile, RB Trevor Etienne (ankle) is listed as questionable and may be activated from injured reserve over the weekend. Either way, Chuba Hubbard figures to handle a large workload again.

Lewis has had additional time to recover from an elbow injury courtesy of the Panthers' Week 5 bye. He was a full practice participant Friday, which is a good sign for his status heading into the weekend. If Lewis is not cleared to play Sunday, then Corey Bullock would once again start at left guard.

Phillips was aiming to suit up for Week 6 but may not be quite ready to go. The linebacker was limited in the Panthers' Wednesday and Thursday sessions before upgrading to a full participant in Friday's practice. Phillips will likely play in Sunday's game against the Eagles, but there is still a chance the team will be overly cautious with the star pass rusher.

There was optimism that Freeling would return after the Panthers' Week 5 bye. The rookie first-rounder ended Week 6 prep with consecutive limited practices, but it looks like he'll miss his first game of the season due to a knee injury he sustained against the Lions in Week 4. If Taylor Moton (illness) is not activated from the reserve/NFI list, then Stone Forsythe figures to start at right tackle Sunday, assuming Freeling is ruled out.

Moton was a full participant in practice all week. He opened the regular season on the reserve/non-football injury list after being diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs before the beginning of training camp in July. If cleared to return, Moton would likely start at right tackle, especially with Monroe Freeling (knee) listed as doubtful for Sunday's contest.

Waller has registered back-to-back limited practice sessions coming out of Carolina's Week 5 bye. The veteran TE could avoid an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Eagles but ramping up his participation level to full Friday. Tommy Tremble (ribs) has also opened Week 6 prep with consecutive limited practices, but both Waller and Tremble seem likely to suit up Sunday, as neither has missed a game this season.

Brooks appears to be making incremental progress in his recovery from core muscle surgery, though he wasn't in uniform Thursday and has yet to be cleared for participation in practice drills while he remains on injured reserve. The 2024 second-round pick has suited up for just five of a possible 38 regular-season games in his career and will miss a minimum of two additional games before he's eligible to return, though his absence could linger beyond then. Chuba Hubbard has worked as the clear lead back for the Panthers, with AJ Dillon (ankle) siphoning off less work than Brooks had been prior to getting hurt.

Per Mike Kaye of ESPN.com, Dillon was spotted with his right foot in a walking boot during an informal practice the Panthers held while on bye Week 5, and the running back apparently still hasn't moved past the injury. He'll have two more chances to potentially get back on the practice field before the Panthers make a ruling on his status heading into Sunday's game at Philadelphia.

Waller has been a regular part of the Panthers' passing game this season, sitting on a 13-148-2 line on 19 targets through four contests. Coming out of the team's Week 5 bye, though, both Waller and fellow TE Tommy Tremble (ribs, LP) are tending to injuries, leaving some question marks in the position group. Practices Thursday and Friday likely will determine if either of them enters the weekend with a designation for Sunday's game at Philadelphia.

Moton remains on the reserve/non-football injury list as he works his way back from a lung issue involving blood clots. The offensive tackle's 21-day window opened Tuesday, and the immediate full practice means there is a chance Moton could be activated for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

Tremble played a reduced role at tight end in Week 4 versus Detroit before the Panthers' bye in Week 5, and it seems plausible that whatever rib injury he's dealing with now could also have been the reason for that. In any case, he'll probably have to practice in full Thursday or Friday to avoid carrying an injury designation into the weekend.

The Panthers designated Etienne for return to practice from their injured reserve list Tuesday, and it seems like there's a chance he could be officially activated for Week 6. With free-agent acquisition AJ Dillon also tending to an ankle issue and Jonathon Brooks (abdomen) on IR, a significant role could be in store for Etienne come Sunday if he does suit up at Philadelphia.

Jackson will miss the remainder of the campaign after undergoing shoulder surgery. He was also nursing a knee injury and will now shift his focus to getting healthy for the 2027 campaign.

After missing the Panthers' Week 4 win over Detroit due to the quad injury, Coker appears to be trending in the right direction coming out of a Week 5 bye. Head coach Dave Canales noted Monday that Coker is "on track" to play Sunday against the Eagles, and the wideout's involvement in Tuesday's session further supports Canales' optimism. Carolina will release its first Week 6 injury report Wednesday, when it will be known whether Coker is practicing in full or in a limited fashion.

Moton has been dealing with blood clots in his lung since the summer but appears closer to being ready to make his return. The Panthers will now have 21 days to officially activate the 2017 second-round pick, or else he'll be forced to miss the remainder of the season.

Wharton is set to return to practice after recovering from neck surgery that kept him out for the first quarter of the 2026 season. The 28-year-old will likely need to log multiple full practices before being activated from the PUP list. The earliest the seventh-year pro can make a return will be Sunday against the Eagles.

The Panthers have opened Etienne's 21-day practice window. The 22-year-old will add much-needed depth to the backfield behind Chubba Hubbard and AJ Dillon, while Jonathan Brooks (abdomen) remains on injured reserve.

Coker was unable to play against the Lions in Week 4 due to a quadriceps injury that he sustained during the Panthers' Week 3 loss to the Browns. He had extra time to rest courtesy of the Week 5 bye, and his practice participation over the coming days will provide more clarity on Coker's status ahead of Sunday's game. Brycen Tremayne and John Metchie would both continue to operate in elevated roles on offense if Coker is not cleared to return.

Moton opened the season on the reserve/non-football illness list due to blood clots in his lung, which he was diagnosed with prior to the start of training camp in late July. Once he's officially designated for return, Moton will have 21 days to be activated from the NFI list, or else he'll sit out for the entire season.

Wharton opened the regular season on the Panthers' reserve/PUP list while recovering from neck surgery he underwent in mid-May. He's progressed enough in his recovery to return to practice, though Wharton would likely need to log multiple full sessions before being activated from the PUP list. Given his impending designation to return, the earliest that Wharton can make his 2026 debut is Sunday against the Eagles.

After making an early exit from the Panthers' Week 3 loss to the Browns due to a quad strain, Coker missed one practice and was limited in two others before taking a questionable tag into this past Sunday's game against the Lions. He was ultimately inactive for the Panthers' 32-26 win, but the team is optimistic that with another week off to heal up from the injury, Coker will be ready to go for a Week 6 matchup with the Eagles on Oct. 18. Despite essentially playing just two and a half games this season, Coker has been highly productive during his time on the field with an 18-222-2 receiving line on 22 targets.

questionable

questionable

Ekwonu was placed on the Panthers' reserve/PUP list prior to the start of the regular season, as he was still recovering from the ruptured patellar tendon he suffered during the Panthers' wild-card loss against the Rams last postseason, and there's no indication at this point that he's nearing a return. With rookie first-rounder Monroe Freeling now dealing with a knee issue, Stone Forsythe could be called upon to start at right tackle for the Panthers in Week 6 after their bye in Week 5.

Phillips sustained a hamstring injury in the Panthers' Week 4 win over the Lions. The linebacker is week-to-week with the injury and has the benefit of Carolina's Week 5 bye to aid in the recovery process. Princely Umanmielen or Trevis Gipson would likely start at strong-side linebacker opposite Patrick Jones if Phillips ultimately can't make it back in time for the Week 6 matchup against Philadelphia.

Freeling suffered a knee injury in the third quarter of the Panthers' Week 4 win over the Lions. With the Week 5 bye buying Freeling some valuable recovery time, it's possible he's able to get healthy enough to suit up against Philadelphia. If Freeling ultimately misses any time, Stone Forsythe will likely start at right tackle.

Etienne opened the season on injured reserve and is eligible to return in Week 6 at the earliest. Getting Etienne back would give the Panthers another backfield piece while Jonathon Brooks (abdomen) recovers from core-muscle surgery. Etienne will likely see most of his playing time on special teams.

Legette has been working through a knee injury the last two weeks, and while he was slated to miss a second straight contest Sunday against the Lions, he'll now sit out at least the next four (including Week 4), meaning his next chance for game action is Sunday, Nov. 8 versus the Broncos. In Legette's continued absence, Carolina will lean on Tetairoa McMillan, Jalen Coker (quadriceps), Brycen Tremayne, John Metchie and David Moore at wide receiver.

The Panthers are in a code-red situation at cornerback after both starters, Jackson and Jaycee Horn (quadriceps), suffered significant injuries against Cleveland in Week 3. Ahead of a date with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams on national television Sunday night, Carolina will be relying on Will Lee, Akayleb Evans and Chau Smith-Wade to cover the snaps.

inactive

inactive

Lewis has a history of elbow injuries, though it's unknown if Sunday's issue is anything new. For now, he is considered questionable to return to the Week 3 meeting with the Browns.

inactive

King will once again operate as the QB3 behind Kenny Pickett and starter Bryce Young. Since he's serving in an emergency role, King is prohibited from playing Sunday unless both Young and Pickett are removed from the game due to injury, illness or ejection.

Coker was forced to exit Sunday's 21-18 loss to the Browns in the second half with a quadriceps injury, and he was unable to return before the conclusion of the contest. The wide receiver explained following game that he was frustrated to not be able to finish the game, but he isn't overly concerned about the injury. Coker will likely undergo additional imaging in the near future, and his status at the team's first practice of the week Wednesday will shed more light on his chances to play Week 4 versus Detroit.

A fourth-round selection of the Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft, Sanders will be a healthy scratch for each of the first three games of the 2026 regular season. There doesn't appear to be a clear path to playing time for the Texas product, unless at least one of Tommy Tremble, Mitchell Evans, Darren Waller or Feleipe Franks were to be unavailable. Sanders' next opportunity to suit up is Week 4 against the Lions on Sunday, Oct. 4.

Jackson sustained the injury in the first quarter, and he will be on the sidelines for the rest of Sunday's game after being evaluated by medical staff. Rookie fourth-rounder Will Lee will see more work at outside corner in Jackson's absence.

inactive

Legette popped up on the Panthers' practice report Thursday as a non-participant due to a knee injury, which he followed up with a limited session Friday before being tagged as questionable to play Sunday. Mike Kaye of ESPN.com reported that Legette was expected to be a game-time decision, and Carolina has determined that a week off is prudent for the wide receiver. In Legette's absence, Brycen Tremayne, John Metchie and David Moore will be the tertiary options at the position behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker (ankle).

Cherelus has not practiced since sustaining a shoulder injury in the Panthers' Week 2 win over the Falcons. The linebacker will now need to miss at least four games before he can return to the team's active roster from injured reserve. Tyrel Dodson will likely take Cherelus' place as a special-teamer and reserve linebacker for the Panthers' defense.

Brooks is expected to be officially placed on injured reserve in the coming days after he exited this past Sunday's 34-3 win over the Falcons due to what had previously been labeled as a groin injury. With Brooks set to miss time, Chuba Hubbard should be further insulated as the Panthers' No. 1 back, while AJ Dillon is lone healthy backup option on the 53-man roster. Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston relays that the Panthers plan to work out veteran Austin Ekeler on Wednesday, and he could eventually be signed to provide further depth in the backfield.

Brown didn't practice throughout the week. While he has been ruled out for Week 2, it's unknown how much longer he will be out of commission. As a result, Aaron Hall and TeRah Edwards are both expected to receive more snaps versus the Falcons.

Jones didn't suit up for the Week 1 loss to the Bears. Although he practiced in a limited capacity throughout the week, he's in danger of missing another contest Sunday. If Jones can't get on the field against Atlanta, Princely Umanmielen and Trevis Gipson would be in line for more snaps.

questionable

Per Reed, Coker went through warmups on the side during Wednesday's practice and does not appear to be dealing with a serious injury, but it is limiting him to start the week. He was not in a walking boot like he was on Monday, which is a good sign, and coach Dave Canales told Joe Person of The Athletic on Wednesday that he expects Coker to suit up Sunday in Atlanta. Coker is coming off a career day in Sunday's loss to the Bears with eight grabs for 138 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

questionable

Coker said he rolled his ankle in the first quarter against Chicago, but he deemed the injury minor and suggested the boot is for precautionary reasons. The second-year wideout expects to play next Sunday against the Falcons. In the Panthers' Week 1 loss to the Bears, Coker paced Carolna in receiving with a monster 8-138-2 line on nine targets. He's emerged as a clear-cut every-down receiver and should be viewed as an upside WR3 in fantasy.

Kaye notes that Brooks was spotted doing some running, so he wasn't completely limited to rehab work. According to Joe Person of The Athletic, Panthers head coach Dave Canales expressed optimism last week that Brooks would be ready to play in Sunday's season opener versus the Bears, and the running back's lack of involvement in Monday's practice isn't believed to have changed the Panthers' stance. Brooks missed the entire 2025 campaign after tearing the ACL in his right knee for the second time in his career in December 2024, but he was fully cleared in the spring and saw action in two preseason games.

Christensen will be required to miss the first four games of the regular season on IR before becoming eligible to return to the Panthers' active roster. Mike Kaye of ESPN.com reports that general manager Dan Morgan said he expects Christensen to return at some point during the regular season, but it remains unclear when that will be.

Hubbard's level of participation in practice will be monitored, but he's on the field with his helmet as the session gets underway. The veteran has been hampered by a hamstring injury sustained in mid-August, but has been progressing well. His participation on Tuesday is a good sign that he's trending in the right direction toward being ready for the start of the season.

Martin-Scott picked up a hamstring injury during training camp practice, preventing him from playing in the Panthers' preseason finale against the Texans on Friday. The injury is severe enough for the South Carolina product to start the regular season on IR, meaning he won't be eligible to play until at least Week 6 against the Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 18. Martin-Scott mostly served on special teams for the Panthers in 2025, finishing with 21 tackles (seven solo) and one forced fumble across 17 regular-season games.

Ekwonu continues to recover from a ruptured patellar tendon that he suffered in the Panthers' wild-card loss to the Rams in January. He is required to miss at least the first four games of the regular season, with Week 6 against the Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 18 the earliest he can return. Rasheed Walker figures to serve as the Panthers' starter at left tackle for as long as Ekwonu is sidelined.

Moton will miss at least the first four games of the regular season. He was diagnosed with blood clots in his lung before the beginning of training camp and is being treated using blood thinners. The earliest Moton can return is Week 6 against the Eagles, though the Panthers will likely take the cautious route with the 2017 second-rounder given the nature and severity of the injury. Monroe Freeling is in line to start at right tackle in Moton's absence.

Wharton underwent a procedure on his neck in early May, and he spent the entirety of the preseason on the active/PUP list. The defensive lineman will now be forced to miss at least the first four contests to open the regular season while he continues to recover.

Etienne suffered an ankle injury in Friday's preseason finale versus Houston, and he will now be forced to miss at least four contests while on IR. The running back was expected to operate as a depth option behind Chuba Hubbard (hamstring) and Jonathan Brooks to open the season, so in his absence, AJ Dillon will likely slot in as the No. 3 option. Additionally, Etienne has operated as the team's primary return specialist on both kicks and punts, so Carolina will have to find replacements there for the time being.

Evans aggravated a neck injury during Wednesday's practice and was subsequently held out of Friday's game. The backup cornerback signed a one-year deal in March to stay with the Panthers and will likely reprise his role with the team in 2026.

Martin-Scott was held out of the game due to a new hamstring injury. The second-year undrafted free agent out of South Carolina is set to be a key piece of the Panthers' linebacker depth throughout the 2026 season. If Martin-Scott's injury persists into the regular season, Claudin Cherelus could see an increased number of snaps for the defense.

Etienne rushed one time for two yards in Friday's preseason finale against the Texans. The running back is set to be the starting kick and punt returner for the Panthers, as well as the primary depth behind the split backfield of Chuba Hubbard (hamstring) and Jonathon Brooks. If Etienne's injury requires him to miss the Week 1 game against the Bears, AJ Dillon will likely be the No. 3 running back, while Jimmy Horn and David Moore could return kicks and punts.

The linebacker needed some medical attention due to soreness in his injured knee, per Carboni. Panthers coach Dave Canales told reporters that Lloyd should be ready for Carolina's regular-season opener. The former Jaguar signed a three-year, $42-million contract with the Panthers in the offseason after recording more than 100 tackles in three of his first four NFL seasons.

It was reported earlier in August that Hubbard was on track to suit up for Carolina's season opener, and per head coach Dave Canales he remains on track to do so. Should Hubbard suit up for Week 1 as anticipated, he and Jonathon Brooks will work in a committee, per Joe Person of The Athletic.

King suffered a hamstring injury in the Panthers' win over the Cardinals in the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 6. He played well in that contest, but given his lack of practice reps and the fact that he'll miss the last three preseason games, King's place on the 53-man roster by the end of training camp is far from guaranteed. Kenny Pickett is expected to be Bryce Young's backup this season, so if the Panthers choose to roster a third quarterback, then Kyle Trask would be King's competition for the QB3 role.

Legette sustained an ankle injury during Wednesday's joint practice with the Jaguars, and given that he'll be in a walking boot until Thursday, he'll presumably sit out Friday's preseason finale against the Texans. When available, the 2024 first-rounder has an opportunity to claim a portion of the Panthers' WR targets that don't go to Tetairoa McMillan or Jalen Coker, a context that may not yield steady volume as long as both McMillan and Coker are available.

Phillips' arm issue was likely sustained during Wednesday's joint practice with the Jaguars. The outside linebacker participated in the first few drives of last Saturday's game against the Bills, logging 1.0 sacks in the brief appearance. It is unclear how severe Phillips' injury is or if he will need to miss additional time. Princely Umanmielen will take over the role of primary edge rusher opposite Patrick Jones in Friday's contest.

questionable

Lewis was able to return to practice for the first time in a couple weeks as he appears to have fully recovered from the calf injury he suffered in late July. The 29-year-old is expected to operate as Carolina's starting left guard this season, and he will now be good to go for the team's preseason opener Saturday in Buffalo.

Waller came out of a one-year retirement last summer to join the Dolphins and appeared in nine regular-season games with Miami, registering 24 catches for 283 yards and six touchdowns as a red-zone weapon. Injuries have been Waller's downfall in recent years, and he missed considerable time last season with hip, pectoral and groin issues. His looming addition is bad news for all three of Tommy Tremble, Ja'Tavion Sanders and Mitchell Evans, who were all expected to see considerable playing time in a three-man committee at the position for the Panthers. Waller's main contributions figure to come on third downs and in the scoring area, assuming he makes the 53-man roster out of camp.

Lewis has been dealing with a calf injury since late July and is set to receive some snaps in Saturday's preseason opener. The starting left guard is adjusting to the issue, and game-situation snaps are likely the next step in his regular-season preparation.

Wharton started training camp on the active/PUP list due to neck surgery he had in mid-May. The defensive tackle has yet to be cleared for contact but has been participating in individual drills while he waits to be medically cleared. Wharton is coming off a career-high 36 tackles (11 solo) over nine regular-season games.

Incoom was cleared to play in Thursday's exhibition game after fully recovering from offseason shoulder surgery that he underwent in June, and he played a total of 42 snaps (36 on defense, six on special teams). Incoom has contributed mostly on special teams since entering the league in 2023 and will likely reprise that role for the upcoming season. He finished the 2025 regular season with 17 tackles (nine solo) across 17 games.

Brazzell will officially miss his entire rookie season due to the LCL tear he suffered during Wednesday's training camp practice. The rookie third-round pick will undergo surgery and set his full attention on making a recovery for the 2027 campaign. In the wake of this transaction, Xavier Legette and John Metchie are the top candidates to secure the No. 3 wide receiver role in Carolina behind Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker.