CHARLOTTE — The Panthers were without a pair of key pass-rushers, as well as their starting quarterback Wednesday.
Defensive end Brian Burns did not practice Wednesday with a foot injury, after he left last week's game against the Patriots twice. He was on the practice field in a red jersey, and was walking the sidelines with teammates during the portion open to the media.
Outside linebacker Frankie Luvu was also out with a knee injury, leaving them without a pair of contributors to the league's second-ranked defense.
Quarterback Sam Darnold was not in uniform, and was not participating because of a right shoulder injury.
Panthers head coach Matt Rhule said during his post-practice press conference that Darnold would miss around four weeks, and that he'd likely be placed on injured reserve. Rhule did not think it was necessarily season-ending.
Cornerback and special teamer Stantley Thomas-Oliver III was also out of practice because of a toe injury that kept him out last week.
Cornerback Rashaan Melvin was limited with a hand injury, and he was also in a red jersey. He left last week's game as well, and was wearing a brace on his right hand Wednesday.
Three other players were listed as full participants, including linebackers Shaq Thompson (knee) and Jermaine Carter Jr. (groin), along with cornerback CJ Henderson (shoulder).
The Panthers got wide receiver Brandon Zylstra and guard Deonte Brown back on the practice field Wednesday as well, as they were designated to return from injured reserve.
Starting safety Juston Burris, who was designated to return two weeks ago, also practiced, potentially giving them more options in the secondary.
