According to a report by Jourdan Rodrigue at the Athletic, Panthers kicker Graham Gano is not expected to play in Thursday’s preseason game against the Steelers. Gano has not played at all this preseason.
In his place Joye Slye has balled out – connecting on multiple 50+ yard field goals and not missing once. This adds more fuel to the kicker controversy fire and gives Slye another opportunity to show what he can do. While it’s tough to cut Gano due to his contract, at this point it will be hard for coach Ron Rivera to go with anyone but Slye to start the season. If he’s not already on the trade block, Gano might be there very soon.
In related news, the Panthers won’t have their usual long snapper available for tonight. J.J. Jansen has been ruled out due to a minor hand injury. They have signed former Raiders long snapper Andrew DePaola to take his spot against Pittsburgh.
To make room for DePaola, Carolina put defensive tackle Destiny Vaeao (quad) on the injured reserve list.
