The Carolina Panthers will field their 10th different offensive line combination in 13 weeks as they face the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. Injuries and suspensions have forced several changes to both the offense and defense.
Key players were ruled out ahead of the game, including cornerback Jaycee Horn (concussion), linebackers Christian Rozeboom (hip/hamstring) and Claudin Cherelus (concussion), and center Cade Mays (ankle). Wide receiver Hunter Renfrow and defensive tackles Jared Harrison-Hunte and Cam Jackson were also added to the inactive list on Sunday.
With these absences, Austin Corbett will start at center while Jake Curhan moves into the right guard position. Saahdiq Charles was called up from the practice squad to provide depth on the offensive line, joining Nick Samac and Yosh Nijman.
On defense, Trevin Wallace returns after missing two games and will start at linebacker alongside Krys Barnes. Lathan Ransom is expected to take over at safety for Tre’von Moehrig, who is suspended. Chau Smith-Wade is set to start at cornerback with Horn out, while Akayleb Evans is likely to see increased playing time on special teams.
The secondary has seen further changes following Corey Thornton’s season-ending injury. The team signed Kalen King from their practice squad and brought in Robert Rochell from the Cowboys’ practice squad. Isaiah Simmons was also activated from the practice squad; he may contribute in a hybrid linebacker-safety role as well as on special teams.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales commented on the lineup adjustments: “We have had a lot of movement due to injuries but our focus remains on executing our game plan.”
The Rams’ inactive list includes quarterback Stetson Bennett IV, running back Jarquez Hunter, cornerback Derion Kendrick, offensive lineman Beaux Limmer, and defensive end Desjuan Johnson.
