The Panthers have been hit hard by injuries for the second straight September. Last year, it was quarterback Cam Newton and defensive tackle Kawann Short, who both went down for the season after Week 2. While it’s not quite as bad as that, this 2020 version of Carolina is suffering, as well. Earlier this week, the team placed All-Pro running back Christian McCaffrey on injured reserve. While he can return in three weeks, it won’t matter much if they keep hurting in the trenches like this.
Both Short and left guard Dennis Daley are doubtful to play in Sunday’s game against the Chargers and another starting lineman is listed as questionable. Here’s this week’s complete injury report.
| Player | Injury | Wed | Thu | Fri | Status |
| OT Russell Okung | Groin | – | DNP | Full | Questionable |
| DT Kawann Short | Foot | DNP | DNP | DNP | Doubtful |
| OL Dennis Daley | Ankle | DNP | DNP | DNP | Doubtful |
| G John Miller | Ankle/Groin | Limited | Full | Full | – |
| DE Yetur Gross-Matos | Concussion | Limited | Full | Full | – |
| DE Brian Burns | Thigh | Limited | Full | Full | – |
Assuming Short and Daley don’t play, expect Michael Schofield to continue starting at left guard and Zach Kerr at defensive tackle in the spot next to Derrick Brown.
As for Russell Okung, the Panthers have two options to take over at left tackle if he’s inactive. Greg Little was their second-round pick in last year’s draft and he only played four games as a rookie due to injuries. Seeing where Little is at and getting him reps is probably the best option.
Carolina could also put Trenton Scott in Okung’s place, as he did last season for the Chargers when Okung had his medical issues. Scott started nine games for LA in 2019, which gives him the experience edge over Little. He had issues with penalties though, drawing eight flags for the season in 827 offensive snaps.
It’s encouraging that Okung was a full participant, though. Okung will likely play along with Burns, Miller and Gross-Matos.
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