Panthers NFL injury report: WR Shi Smith questionable, but trending toward playing
The Panthers’ punt returning plans could still be in flux.
Wide receiver Shi Smith did not practice Friday. He is listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the New York Giants with a groin injury. Smith was set to return punts in place for veteran Andre Roberts, who the team placed on injured reserve earlier this week.
“He experienced some tightness after (Thursdays) practice. He went in the trainer room and said, ‘My groin feels tight.’ He had a little groin (injury) during training camp so we just shut him down today to get him to the game. He’s on the positive side of questionable,” coach Matt Rhule said. “DJ (Moore) would be first up back there.”
Rhule said he does not consider Smith to be a game-time decision. Rather the team held him out considering he had a “good week” of practice.
Receivers Laviska Shenault and Moore were returning punts during the portion of Panthers practice open to media. Running back Chuba Hubbard is expected to return kickoffs on Sunday.
Carolina will likely be without linebacker Brandon Smith. The rookie is dealing with a thigh injury. He did not practice Friday and carries a doubtful status into Sunday.
The team should be with several key players who spent all week on the injury report. Tackle Taylor Moton (knee), defensive end Marquis Haynes (hip) and linebacker Frankie Luvu (shoulder) all were full participants on Friday and do not carry a game status into Sunday’s game against the New York Giants.
All three are expected to play.
This story was originally published September 16, 2022 at 3:05 PM.
