The Panthers had three players who did not participate in today’s practice – rookie wide receiver Omar Bayless sat out, as did linebacker Jordan Kunaszyk and tight end Temarrick Hemingway.
They were all wearing red jerseys – which now denote injuries – while quarterbacks wear green.
Panthers QB Teddy Bridgewater meeting with the media via Zoom pic.twitter.com/kKbnsZsanP
— Jason Huber (@_JasonHuber) August 17, 2020
After practice, coach Matt Rhule gave the media some injury news on each of them. Apparently Bayless’ knee got swollen overnight, which was why he was held out. As for Kunaszyk, he is dealing with an ankle issue.
Rhule says WR Omar Bayless had a swollen knee, which is why he wasn’t on the field today. Also LB Jordan Kunaszyk has an ankle injury, explaining his absence. #Panthers
— Myles Simmons (@MylesASimmons) August 18, 2020
Bayless had been performing well, drawing praise from Rhule as well as a lot of his older, more experienced teammates. Despite the setback, his chances of making the 2020 roster should be as good as any of the rookies on offense. Bayless’ size (6-foot-3) and wingspan (76.880 inches) make him a red zone weapon that the Panthers can’t easily replicate.
Kunaszyk looked sharp during the preseason last year, which helped secure his place on the roster. This year, it’s a tougher sell with no exhibition games plus several new young linebackers competing for a spot. Kunaszyk is likely on the bubble, but right now we believe he will make it.
As for Hemingway, he is still in the concussion protocol. He is probably in danger of being cut and every day he misses will hurt his chances more.
In related news, wide receiver Keith Kirkwood will be out several weeks with a broken clavicle and left tackle Russell Okung has some back tightness but isn’t expected to miss any time.
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