CHARLOTTE — The Panthers may be leaning one direction on the Christian McCaffrey decision, but they know they’ll be without two starters against the Eagles.
The Panthers running back practiced on a limited basis for the third straight day Friday, but is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game against the Eagles.
McCaffrey said Thursday he felt “really good,” and thought he had a chance to play this weekend.
He’s been out since the Sept. 23 game at Houston, when he strained his hamstring. They have every reason to be cautious with him, after he missed 13 games last year with a collection of unrelated injuries.
If he can’t go, they’ll continue to roll with the committee of Chuba Hubbard and Royce Freeman (and Rodney Smith if they promote him from the practice squad again).
The Panthers did rule out both linebacker Shaq Thompson (foot) and left tackle Cameron Erving (neck). Neither of them have practiced this week.
Center Matt Paradis returned to practice Friday after missing Thursday with an illness, and he’s not listed with a game status at all, which is good news for them. They only have one other center (Sam Tecklenburg) on the roster at the moment.
Defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos (ankle) is also listed as questionable, though he’s been a full participant in practice all week. Right guard John Miller (shoulder) and outside linebacker Haason Reddick (neck) were also full participants Friday, and have no game status.
https://www.panthers.com/news/week-5-final-injury-report-christian-mccaffrey-doubtful
