The Carolina Panthers just saw Devin Lloyd get named NFC Defensive Player of the Week for Week 2, but the star linebacker wasn’t even on the practice field later that same day. Lloyd is dealing with a calf injury, an early season setback for a guy who just put on an absolute clinic.
NFC Defensive Player of the Week Sidelined
This calf issue didn’t stop Lloyd from absolutely tearing it up against the Falcons in Week 2. He snagged two interceptions and even took one back to the house for a touchdown in a blowout win. That kind of performance is pure fire, and it’s exactly what Carolina needs to spark their defense. But now, with a Week 3 game against the Browns coming up, he’s sidelined. What a gut punch, man. You want your best players out there building momentum, not sitting on the bench.
Early Season Injury Bug Hits Hard
Lloyd isn’t the only headache for Panthers head coach Dave Canales right now. Pass rusher Jaelan Phillips also sat out practice with a back injury. Canales says both Lloyd and Phillips are “day-to-day,” which sounds reassuring but never really feels good when your top guys are dinged up this early. Losing two critical defensive pieces, especially after Lloyd’s monster game, definitely changes the whole vibe for this Browns matchup. Linebacker Claudin Cherelus (shoulder), safety Nick Scott (rib), and tight end Darren Waller (rest) were also out of practice. Wide receiver Jalen Coker (ankle) was a limited participant. At least defensive tackle Bobby Brown (back) and linebacker Patrick Jones (back) fully participated, but the impact of Lloyd and Phillips being sidelined is a massive concern.
Carolina’s got to figure out how to navigate these injuries fast, especially with Lloyd and Phillips potentially missing time. Their defense looked sharp in Week 2, but can they keep that momentum going if key players are out? The Browns game is right around the corner. Every snap counts, and these early season injury reports can absolutely shape a team’s entire year. Let’s see if the Panthers can overcome this hit.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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