Some Panthers’ defensive backs are on on injury report, but will they play Sunday vs. Rams?
The Panthers are preparing to play the defending Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams without their top-cover cornerback.
For a third straight day, defensive back Jaycee Horn did not practice for Carolina. He is dealing with a rib injury he suffered against the 49ers.
Opposing teams haven’t fared well throwing toward Horn. Through five games, he has allowed a passer rating of 23.8. According to Pro Football Focus, Horn has allowed the fewest yards against of any starting cornerback.
He likely would’ve matched up with All-Pro receiver Cooper Kupp in the slot. The team officially listed Horn as questionable for Sunday, but interim head coach Steve Wilks was less optimistic.
“We have a lot of guys who have been with us since OTAs,” Wilks said. “They have been around here and understand the system. They know what has to be done. I have no reservations about them playing.”
Wilks said Donte Jackson, CJ Henderson and Keith Taylor will be the top three cornerbacks if Horn cannot play.
Jackson popped up on Thursday’s injury report. He did not practice Friday. He’s battling an ankle injury. Wilks said he is confident Jackson will play.
Practice squad defensive back Tae Hayes, who was signed during training camp, could be elevated to the active roster if the team needs more depth.
Carolina expects free safety Xavier Woods to return to the lineup. He missed last week with a hamstring injury. Wilks said Myles Hartsfield and Juston Burris will see increased playing time as Jeremy Chinn remains on injured reserve. He’ll miss at least three more contests (including the Rams game).
Quarterback PJ Walker is expected to make his third career start. He took first-team reps all week while Baker Mayfield sat out of practice with an ankle injury. On Friday, he was spotted not wearing of his walking boot but did not practice. The team has not ruled Mayfield out yet. Wilks said he could serve as the backup.
Wide receiver Laviska Shenault Jr. will not play again due to a hamstring injury. He missed the past few weeks after making a game-changing 67-yard touchdown reception. The offense could use his explosiveness, but he is not ready to play yet.
The team should get linebacker Frankie Luvu back. He was a surprise inactive last week after warming up before the game. His shoulder did not respond how the team had hoped so they held him out.
Backup tackle Cameron Erving (groin), and wide receiver Robbie Anderson (illness) were listed on the injury report. Both should play. Receiver DJ Moore (shoulder), tight end Stephen Sullivan (back) were full participants during Friday’s practice and carry no game status.
