In addition to being 12.5-point underdogs, the Panthers will be playing without two key pieces on Sunday against the Saints. According to team reporter Max Henson, wide receiver D.J. Moore and linebacker Shaq Thompson have both been ruled out this week. Thompson has been dealing with an ankle injury since the Seattle game but he also underwent shoulder surgery yesterday.
2018 fifth-round pick Jermaine Carter Jr. will take Thompson’s place next to Luke Kuechly. This will be his sixth career start.
As for Moore, he’s still in the concussion protocol. He did make some progress though and was working off to the side at Friday’s practice.
With Moore out we should expect to see more of Chris Hogan. He missed the middle of the season on injured reserve but was recently activated. Hogan has posted six catches for 53 yards. He’s also been working as a punt returner, totaling 16 yards on two attempts so far.
In related news, defensive end Marquis Haynes is listed as questionable with a knee injury. Cornerback Corn Elder (illness) is also questionable.
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