The Carolina Panthers are facing significant injury challenges as they prepare to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this Sunday. With playoff implications on the line, the Panthers are expected to be without several key players, which could heavily impact their performance. The team has already confirmed that linebacker Josey Jewell will miss the game due to a concussion and a quad injury, while cornerback Chau-Smith Wade is also sidelined with an illness and chest injury.
In addition to these confirmed absences, several other players are listed as doubtful, including tackle Taylor Moton and cornerback Jaycee Horn, who are both dealing with knee and hip injuries, respectively. The Panthers' defense is particularly vulnerable, as they are already missing several linebackers, including Shaq Thompson, Claudin Cherilus, and Trevin Wallace. With Jewell joining the ranks of the sidelined, the defensive unit, which has struggled throughout the season, faces an uphill battle against the Buccaneers.
Offensively, the Panthers are in a slightly better position, but the potential loss of running back Chuba Hubbard and the uncertain status of Xavier Legette could pose challenges. Moton's absence on the offensive line would also be felt, especially if Damien Lewis, who has been a standout performer this season, is unable to play due to his ankle and illness issues. Overall, the Panthers are likely to rely heavily on their backups as they attempt to secure a victory and thwart the Buccaneers' playoff aspirations.
