CHARLOTTE - An ankle injury will keep right guard Trai Turner out of action for the Panthers' season finale at the Saints.
Head coach Ron Rivera said Tyler Larsen will start in Turner's spot, but the plan at the position will be typical of the team's approach Sunday.
"We've got a couple of other guys that we'll have active and will get opportunities as well, but Tyler will start off at right guard," Rivera said. "There are a number of young guys that we're planning for opportunities to put them out there. Going forward, those are guys we want to be able to keep and have them as a part of what you're doing."
Rivera didn't go into specifics about how he'll handle players like bell cow ballcarrier Christian McCaffrey or ever-present linebacker Luke Kuechly.
"It's about being smart," Rivera said. "We're coming out to win the game, but we are looking to play some of the younger guys."
As expected, quarterback Cam Newton and defensive tackle Kawann Short are out for the second consecutive game. Running back Kenjon Barner - the Panthers' principle returner in recent weeks - and left tackle Marshall Newhouse are questionable. Chris Clark remains an option at left tackle.
Rivera said receiver DJ Moore could be among those pitching in on punt returns, with running back Travaris Cadet getting a look on kickoff returns.
