The Panthers might be back from their off weeks, but not everyone is on the field, with rookie right tackle Monroe Freeling and veteran running back AJ Dillon both missing practice on Wednesday. These two were the only players listed as not practicing on the team’s first injury report of the week, a real gut punch as the squad preps for their next matchup.
Two Big Absences That Hurt
It’s a tough break when you’re trying to get back into the swing of things after an off week, but losing two key pieces like Freeling and Dillon right out of the gate is a serious concern. Freeling, the rookie right tackle, is dealing with a knee issue, which is never good for an offensive lineman. And Dillon, the veteran running back, is sidelined with an ankle injury. Think about that: a critical piece on the offensive line and a veteran presence in the backfield, both completely out of practice. That’s a significant chunk of offensive firepower and protection just gone. These aren’t just minor bumps, these are the only two guys who couldn’t even get on the field.
The Limited Crew and Who’s Full Go
While Freeling and Dillon were completely out, a few other Panthers were limited in practice. Left guard Damien Lewis is battling an elbow issue, outside linebacker Jaelan Phillips has a hamstring, tight end Tommy Tremble is dealing with ribs, and tight end Darren Waller has a toe problem. You never want to see a list like that, especially with offensive linemen and key playmakers.
But here’s the silver lining, and it’s a big one for Panthers fans: quarterback Bryce Young was a full participant despite his knee being on the report. He’s been a full go for all four practices since that knee injury, which is huge. Wide receiver Jalen Coker (quad) and linebacker Thomas Incoom (ribs) also fully participated. Plus, three players are in their 21-day return-to-practice window and were full participants: offensive tackle Taylor Moton (lungs, blood clot), defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton (neck), and running back Trevor Etienne (ankle).
Getting Young back to full speed is crucial, and seeing those guys in the return-to-practice window as full participants is promising. But make no mistake, the immediate focus is on Freeling and Dillon. Their absences are loud on that injury report.
With Freeling’s knee and Dillon’s ankle keeping them off the field, the Panthers face some real questions as they prep for their next matchup. We gotta keep an eye on those return-to-practice windows for Moton, Wharton, and Etienne too, because this team needs all hands on deck. Every single practice rep matters right now.
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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