The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for their final game of the season against the Atlanta Falcons, with significant roster moves announced just before the matchup. Veteran running back Miles Sanders has been activated from the injured reserve, returning to the active roster after suffering a leg injury in Week 10 against the New York Giants. Despite limited playtime earlier in the season, Sanders is expected to start against Atlanta, with Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear as potential backups.

Additionally, the Panthers have signed defensive end DeShawn Williams from the practice squad. Williams, who previously played for Denver, has contributed with 13 tackles and half a sack this season. However, the team has also faced setbacks, as outside linebacker Amare Barno has been placed on injured reserve due to a shoulder injury sustained in the previous game against Tampa Bay. With Josey Jewell also sidelined due to a concussion, the Panthers have elevated linebackers Kenny Dyson and Thomas Incoom from the practice squad to bolster their thin roster.

The NFL's final week of the regular season, Week 18, is upon us, presenting a crucial opportunity for Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) players. With several teams resting key starters, value players emerge as essential picks for FanDuel lineups.

Michael Carter of the Arizona Cardinals is a prime candidate, stepping into a prominent role with injuries sidelining both James Conner and Trey Benson. Carter's recent performance, including 13 carries for 70 yards, showcases his potential to capitalize on increased opportunities. Similarly, Blake Corum of the Los Angeles Rams is expected to see significant action against the Seattle Seahawks, who have struggled defensively against the run.

Stacking players from high-stakes matchups, such as Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown from the Detroit Lions facing the Minnesota Vikings, could yield substantial returns. Both teams are vying for playoff positioning, making their offensive outputs critical. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, needing a win against the New Orleans Saints to secure the NFC South, also present strong stacking options with Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans.

The Carolina Panthers are gearing up for a pivotal matchup against the Atlanta Falcons in the final week of the regular season, looking to play spoiler despite a slew of injuries affecting their roster. The Panthers will need a cohesive team effort, particularly in light of their depleted running back and linebacker positions, which could challenge their depth across various roles.

As the Panthers released their initial depth chart for the game, it highlights key players in both offense and defense. Quarterback Bryce Young is expected to lead the offense, supported by running backs Raheem Blackshear and Mike Boone. The receiving corps includes veteran Adam Thielen, while the offensive line seeks to protect their quarterback with Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton anchoring the tackles.

On defense, Jadeveon Clowney and A'Shawn Robinson will be crucial in the pass rush, while the secondary, featuring Jaycee Horn and Xavier Woods, will need to step up against the Falcons' aerial attack. Special teams will also play a vital role, with Raheem Blackshear handling both kick and punt return duties. Overall, the Panthers face a challenging task, but they are determined to disrupt the Falcons' playoff aspirations.

The Carolina Panthers are set to improve their running game in Week 18 with the anticipated return of running back Miles Sanders, who has been sidelined for the past six games due to an ankle injury. His absence has been felt acutely, especially with Chuba Hubbard also on injured reserve, leaving the Panthers scrambling for viable options in the backfield. Last week, the team struggled significantly without their primary ball carrier, relying on Raheem Blackshear and Mike Boone, neither of whom has proven to be an effective solution for the NFL-level competition.

Despite the team's efforts to fill the void, the lack of a reliable running game has hampered their offensive capabilities. However, with Sanders cleared to practice and potentially ready for action against the Atlanta Falcons, the Panthers hope to regain some offensive balance. Sanders was initially brought in during the offseason by general manager Scott Fitterer but has since fallen down the depth chart, overtaken by Hubbard and rookie Jonathan Brooks. Now, as the Panthers face a crucial matchup, the return of Sanders could be pivotal in revitalizing their ground attack.

Coach Dave Canales expressed optimism about Sanders' readiness, noting that he was cleared late last week but did not have sufficient time to prepare for the previous game. With fresh legs and a pressing need for a strong performance, Sanders' involvement will be closely watched as the Panthers aim to end the season on a high note against their division rivals.

As the fantasy football season approaches its climax, players are scrambling to enhance their rosters through strategic waiver wire pickups. Highlighted this week is Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan, who has surged into the spotlight as a top performer. Over the last month, McMillan has averaged nearly 5 receptions and 60.5 receiving yards per game, positioning him as the WR10 in fantasy rankings. His impressive streak includes six touchdowns in just four games, making him a must-add for any fantasy player looking to bolster their lineup ahead of a critical matchup against the New Orleans Saints.

Other notable players on the waiver wire include Tennessee Titans running back Julius Chestnut, who has struggled to make an impact this season but may see increased opportunities. Meanwhile, Arizona Cardinals rookie Trey Benson is recovering from an ankle injury, with hopes of returning for the season finale against the San Francisco 49ers. Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has shown promise after a rocky start to the season, while teammates Mike Boone and Raheem Blackshear are also vying for attention as potential pickups due to injuries affecting their counterparts. As the season winds down, savvy fantasy managers will need to act quickly to secure these valuable assets.