Confirming an earlier report from NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, Carolina Panthers head coach Matt Rhule told reporters on Monday that defensive back Myles Hartsfield will miss an extended period of time due to the wrist injury he sustained in the Week 1 victory over the New York Jets.
Hartsfield exited the game midway through the second half and did not return. The injury, according to Rhule, will likely be “a surgical matter.”
Any injury is unfortunate and of ill-timing. But the absence of Hartsfield, especially with A.J. Bouye still out due to suspension and the New Orleans Saints on deck for Week 2, will undoubtedly hamper the team’s secondary.
The second-year defensive back has been a versatile piece for Rhule and defensive coordinator Phil Snow. Carolina will now have to pinpoint its next man up, particularly in nickel coverage, to help replace Hartsfield for what’ll be a huge chunk of the season.
Look for Stantley Thomas-Oliver III and/or newly-signed practice squad member and familiar face Corn Elder to be of the early options.
