CHARLOTTE – Eight players are listed on the Panthers' injury report, but head coach Ron Rivera said the only real concern is the status of linebacker Thomas Davis, who broke his arm in the NFC Championship.
Davis underwent surgery on Monday and watched practice on Wednesday. He's determined to play in Super Bowl 50.
"If he said he's going to do it, I believe he will," Rivera said. "That just shows the right type of mental attitude that you need. Thomas is really all about the team. He's the heart and soul of who we are.
"We'll see how he is each day. (He probably won't practice) until we get to Santa Clara."
Defensive end Charles Johnson (knee), center Ryan Kalil (knee), running back Jonathan Stewart (ankle), fullback Mike Tolbert (knee) and running back Fozzy Whittaker (ankle) did not participate Wednesday.
"We are being careful," Rivera said.
Defensive tackle Kawann Short (knee) and cornerback Robert McClain (ankle) were limited.
Defensive end Jared Allen, who was held out of the NFC Championship with a fractured foot, was a full participant. Allen felt he could have played last Sunday and he certainly expects to play in his first Super Bowl on February 7.
"I'm preparing as usual. My foot feels great," Allen said. "I'm going to keep working and getting ready for this game. No limitations.
"I would have loved to play (in the NFC Championship). Did you see how much fun those guys were having on the field? As a competitor I want to be on the field all the time, but I respect Coach Rivera's decision. I just want to be a part of this with these guys. This is a special group. Everybody wants to contribute."
