Panthers injury report: Key defender, running back are game-time decisions vs. Saints
The Carolina Panthers could be without two key starters Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.
Defensive end Brian Burns did not practice Friday and is listed as questionable for the team’s Week 18 season finale. Running back D’Onta Foreman is also questionable after a limited Friday practice.
Burns landed on the injury report after Thursday’s practice. He is battling an ankle injury. Foreman is nursing a knee injury, despite practicing fully on both Wednesday and Thursday. Interim head coach Steve Wilks called Burns and Foreman game-time decisions.
With the Panthers eliminated from playoff contention, it would not be a surprise if Burns sits out. His 12.5 sacks and 22 quarterback hits lead the team, but his absence would allow the team a more extensive look at rookie pass rusher Amaré Barno.
If Foreman cannot play, running back Chuba Hubbard would likely start. Rookie Raheem Blackshear would also see an increased workload behind Hubbard.
Defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis (back) is unlikely to play considering he has not practiced all week. The Panthers will be thin on the defensive line if both Ioannidis and Burns do not play. Ioannidis is officially listed as questionable.
Linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe is the only other player entering Sunday with a game status. He is questionable with a hamstring injury. Tight end Stephen Sullivan does not carry a game status despite being limited on Friday with an elbow injury. He is expected to play.
The Panthers (6-10) are three-point underdogs at New Orleans. Carolina beat the Saints in Week 3 at Bank of America Stadium. A win would secure the Panthers a winning record against the NFC South for the first time since 2015.
