Panthers Rule Out Two Starters and Enter Sunday Night Short-Handed

Overview

• Friday’s final injury report confirmed left guard Damien Lewis and receiver Xavier Legette will not play against the Detroit Lions.
• The team also placed starting cornerbacks Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson on injured reserve earlier in the week, removing both primary starters from the secondary.
• Quarterback Bryce Young practiced fully and is expected to play, leaving Carolina to lean on its top passing attack despite diminished protection and receiving depth.
• Several Panthers are listed as questionable — including Jalen Coker, rookie tackle Monroe Freeling, Lee Hunter and Cam Jackson — with Freeling still requiring independent concussion clearance to be eligible.
• If Coker cannot play the Panthers may promote practice-squad receiver Ja'seem Reed for his NFL debut, a move that would further thrust inexperienced players into key roles and shape Sunday night’s game plan.