Overview
- The Panthers designated cornerback Michael Jackson, running back Jonathon Brooks and wide receiver Xavier Legette to return from injured reserve, a decision that began Wednesday and starts each player's 21‑day practice window.
- Several other injured players resumed full practice this week, including edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, guard Damien Lewis and rookie cornerback Will Lee III, while Brady Christensen continues his 21‑day window.
- Coach Dave Canales said the club's quiet trade deadline reflected both limited salary‑cap flexibility and confidence that returning players could bolster the roster without external moves.
- Jaycee Horn remains on a longer recovery timetable and is unlikely to return until December, a development that keeps immediate pressure on the secondary despite Jackson's potential contribution.
- Under NFL rules the club must activate any player to the 53‑man roster during the 21‑day window or keep them on season‑ending injured reserve, a process that will determine whether Carolina gets up to five starters and key reserves back for the NFC South stretch run.