Brian Burns returns to practice on Thursday

Panthers OLB Brian Burns (ankle) returned to the practice field on Thursday.

The Carolina Panthers got their leading sack artist back on the practice field.

After missing out on Wednesday due to an ankle injury, outside linebacker Brian Burns returned to today’s session as a limited participant. The two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher currently leads the team in sacks (6.0), quarterback hits (15) and tackles for a loss (13).

Carolina did not, however, have tight ends Hayden Hurst (concussion) and Ian Thomas (ankle) as well as guard Justin McCray (calf). Interim head coach Chris Tabor gave a strong indication to reporters yesterday that Cade Mays, who filled in for McCray in Week 14’s loss to the New Orleans Saints, will get the starting nod at left guard.

Here is Thursday’s injury report in its entirety:

Injury Wednesday Thursday Friday Game status
OLB Brian Burns Ankle DNP Limited
CB Troy Hill Rest DNP
CB Jaycee Horn Rest DNP
TE Hayden Hurst Concussion DNP DNP
CB D’Shawn Jamison Illness DNP DNP
OLB DJ Johnson Illness DNP
G Justin McCray Calf DNP DNP
OT Taylor Moton Rest/knee DNP Limited
S Jammie Robinson Illness/finger DNP Limited
WR Adam Thielen Rest DNP
TE Ian Thomas Ankle DNP DNP
OLB Marquis Haynes Sr. Back Limited Limited
TE Tommy Tremble Hip Limited Limited
DT DeShawn Williams Knee Limited Limited
P Johnny Hekker Shin Full Full
OLB Amaré Barno Illness DNP
S Sam Franklin Jr. Illness DNP

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